Food Policy Oversight Division Created
(Stock image of food bank distribution courtesy: USDA/Bob Nichols)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Indianapolis City-County Council has approved a multi-faceted measure that the city expects will increase food access for families in need.
Proposal 337 establishes a new Division of Community Nutrition and Food Policy, the Indianapolis Community Food Access Coalition, and the Indianapolis Food Access Advisory Commission.
“The passage of Proposal 337 marks a banner day for food access work in Indianapolis,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “These changes will enhance equity, empower neighborhood food stakeholders, and lay the groundwork for a sustainable food system that benefits all residents.”
The new division of Community Nutrition and Food Policy will administer and coordinate city programs related to food insecurity, food access, and food equity.
“This will create opportunities for the city to speak with a single voice when it comes to food policy and food-related initiatives,” said Milele Kennedy, who was named the first director of community nutrition and food policy.
The office will provide a variety of programs to help neighborhood food programs and technical support to small, independent grocers.
Proposal 337 also creates the 13-member Indianapolis Food Access Advisory Commission, which will act as the coalition’s governing board to elevate the need for data-informed, sustainable and equitable practices in terms of the mayor’s vision on food-related initiatives.