Centers for Disease Control (CDC)-1809 High Obesity Program (HOP) grant funds were awarded to the University of Kentucky (UK) Cooperative Extension Service for increasing access to healthier foods and active living resources in Martin County, Kentucky. As the final year comes to a close, the grant team is proud to acknowledge the expansion of Martin County’s food systems network. Through the with assistance and collaboration from Coalition members, a several food access points were established to increase availability of nutritious foods in the community. A new community garden at local faith-based organization was started last year. Approximately, 44 people were served and received 9 bushels of produce (35 bags green beans, 35 bags potatoes, 40 bags corn, plus miscellaneous peppers and cantaloupe). A distribution of 80 bushels of tomatoes and potatoes were additionally handed out. The community garden is currently continuing in its second year and community organizers are hoping for another bountiful harvest.

This past year, the CDC HOP team has also been working closely the faith-based organization to open up a new food pantry at the church. The team provided partners with an overall implementation plan as well as purchased supplies through grant dollars to contribute toward an infrastructure that will allow for the sustainability of the pantry. The pantry will open August 19, 2023 and will be a much-needed resource within the county.