The fourth annual Southern Illinois Food Security Summit aims to address the growing issue of food insecurity in rural communities throughout the region. The event will bring together food pantries, schools, healthcare providers, farmers, businesses, religious organizations, and community members dedicated to improving healthy food access and nutrition security.
This year’s summit will feature a keynote address from Trevor Johnson of the Illinois Public Health Institute on the "Food is Medicine" initiative, which explores the connection between nutrition and health. Attendees will have opportunities to learn about federal nutrition programs, healthy food pantry models, donation gardens, and how to support volunteers. The event will also focus on how to engage communities in these initiatives.
The summit will kick off Hunger Action Month, highlighting local efforts to raise awareness and take action against hunger in southern Illinois. Participants will have the chance to network with peers and connect with organizations that are making a difference in food access across the region.
The Food Works Mobile Farmers Market will be on-site, allowing participants to explore innovative ways of bringing local food to communities. A limited number of exhibitors will also be present to provide resources and information on supporting food access efforts.
The Southern Illinois Food Security Summit will take place on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at John A. Logan College in Carterville. Registration is $20, including lunch. For more information, visit www.FeedSI.org or contact Toni Kay Wright at 618-993-3304 or tkwright@illinois.edu.
