Addressing Hunger in Arlington

Confronting the Reality of Hunger in Arlington

When COVID began, 15,800 Arlington residents were unsure of where they would get their next meal according to estimates from our Department of Human Services. That was 6.8 percent of our neighbors. Today, the Capital Area Food Bank estimates 26,000 are at risk of hunger, just over 8.8%. That’s a significant increase.

Our fellow Arlingtonians in need are our families and neighbors. But, despite our efforts, gaps remain in our response. So, to sustain our 2020’s efforts and to build a stronger hunger response system, my Chair’s priority for the coming year will be addressing hunger and food insecurity.

County Manager Mark Schwartz and Superintendent Dr. Francisco Duran, with the support of the County Board and the School Board, will be forming a Hunger and Food Insecurity Working Group over the coming month to help us better address the gaps and racial inequities on hunger, and to better collaborate and coordinate to maximize our resources. The Working Group will work with the County’s newly hired Food Coordinator over the next 12 to 18 months. Details on how Arlingtonians can get involved will be announced over the coming weeks.