Urban Agriculture: Resiliency Rooted in Innovation- Addressing Food Insecurity & Poor Nutrition During COVID-19

This year’s October Urban Agriculture Month will shine a spotlight on the significant role urban agriculture plays in the regional and local food system. Several urban agriculture, food security and garden groups in northern Virginia have come together to offer a series of virtual events that highlights the local urban agriculture response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The theme of the month is Urban Agriculture: Resiliency Rooted in Innovation. Due to COVID-19, individuals are facing unprecedented challenges in accessing affordable, nutritious foods. The economic downturn coupled with unanticipated job loss has forced millions of Americans to turn to food banks and food assistance programs, such as SNAP, for the first time ever. Concurrently, research shows that people with obesity and diet-related diseases like diabetes and cancer who contract COVID-19 have worse outcomes, further highlighting the importance of ensuring access to nutritious foods. As the pandemic and corresponding economic challenges continue, private sector investment and government leadership are critical. The event is free and will begin at 11:30 a.m. To register for the event and for more information please click here.