By Shelby Carroll

Food insecurity in Rowan County, is a significant issue, reflecting broader challenges seen across the state. Approximately 13.2 percent of the county’s population, or about 19,220 people, face food insecurity, which indicates a substantial need for access to healthy and affordable food options.

Several local initiatives aim to address this problem. Non-profit organizations like the Rowan Food and Farm Network (RFFN) and Bread Riot play crucial roles in mitigating food insecurity. RFFN focuses on educating residents about healthy food choices and creating opportunities for local farmers, vendors and consumers. Bread Riot collaborates with Rowan County school nutrition programs to distribute fresh produce to low-income families and children, particularly during the summer months when school meals are not available.

Rowan County Cooperative Extensions collaborates with Rowan Meals on Wheels monthly to set up a vendor booth named the “Donation Station” at the Salisbury farmers market. This allows market attendees to buy fresh produce to donate, with all proceeds benefiting Rowan County Meals on Wheels clients. The Donation Station will be open at the market on Saturday, Aug. 17,, from 8 am to noon. Come visit and show your support.

Rowan Helping Ministries operates food pantries that provide essential support to those in need. These efforts are supplemented by community-driven programs such as mobile markets and community gardens, which aim to increase access to fresh, locally produced foods.

If you are interested in volunteering for any of these organizations or wish to learn more about how you can lend a helping hand, reach out to Shelby Carroll at shelby_carroll@ncsu.edu.

Shelby Carroll is agriculture and natural resources agent with the Rowan County Cooperative Extension.