As a result of our high poverty rate and other risk factors, 18.6% of Clinton County residents are burdened with food insecurity. Residents have also reported that only 7% get the recommended intake of fruits and vegetables each day. Community members of all ages need access to healthy foods. 

Expansion of the current farmers market and access to healthy locally grown foods were noted in recent work with the CDC High Obesity grant as well as the Community Health Improvement Plan. Efforts to formalize a second downtown farmers market location with easy access for pedestrians has occurred in partnership with the Clinton County Community Foundation. $47,000 was secured in the past from the KY Department of Agriculture to purchase land for the downtown market location. The Clinton County Community Foundation has been diligent in fundraising efforts to gain additional revenue for building a market structure. In February 2019, Clinton County Health Coalition facilitated by the Clinton County Cooperative Extension Service secured an additional $10,000 of support from the Local Board of Health to assist with project completion. The partnership of multiple community groups will result in a dedicated farmers market structure easily accessible to youth and adults. Access to locally grown produce will increase as well as opportunities for education and community engagement all of which will strengthen local families and our economy.