Maui's Food Security Plan: Empowering Community-Driven Solutions

Maui County is taking a proactive approach to ensuring food and nutrition security for all its residents. The Department of Agriculture is collaborating with community partners across the islands to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses the unique needs and challenges of the local food system. This collaborative effort aims to guarantee affordable, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food access for every Maui County resident.

Unlocking Maui's Sustainable Food Future

Grassroots Engagement Shapes the Plan

The Food and Nutrition Security Plan is the result of extensive community input, with over 600 stakeholders from diverse backgrounds contributing their perspectives. Farmers, ranchers, fishers, hunters, foragers, educators, and public health workers have all played a crucial role in shaping the plan's goals and objectives. This inclusive approach ensures that the plan reflects the unique needs and priorities of Maui County's diverse communities.By leveraging the expertise and insights of these community members, the Department of Agriculture has developed a comprehensive draft plan that addresses the top food system challenges identified across Maui, Molokai, and Lanai. The plan's objectives cover a wide range of areas, from improving food access and affordability to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and strengthening local food supply chains.

Prioritizing Community Feedback

The Department of Agriculture is now seeking additional input from the community to help prioritize the plan's draft objectives and identify any missing elements. Residents are encouraged to complete a 10-minute survey before October 11, 2024, to share their feedback and help shape the final plan.The survey is available at https://bit.ly/MauiNuiFNSP, and a virtual community meeting will be held on October 8, 2024, at 6 p.m. to provide more information and gather additional input. The full draft of the plan, including details on the planning process, can be accessed at https://www.mauicounty.gov/agriculture.

Cultivating a Resilient and Equitable Food System

The Food and Nutrition Security Plan represents a significant step forward in Maui County's efforts to build a more resilient and equitable food system. By empowering community-driven solutions and leveraging the expertise of local stakeholders, the plan aims to ensure that all residents have access to the nutritious, culturally appropriate food they need to thrive.As the plan continues to take shape, the Department of Agriculture is committed to ongoing collaboration and engagement with the community. This collaborative approach will be crucial in addressing the unique challenges and opportunities that Maui County faces in achieving long-term food and nutrition security.