Food is more than just fuel—it’s a cornerstone of health, community, and culture. Here in San Diego County, we’re lucky to have a robust food system that includes agricultural and fishing industries, over 15,000 diverse food facilities, and a year-round growing season. Yet, food insecurity remains a pressing issue for many residents. That’s where the Food Justice Community Action Plan (FJCAP) comes in. While not comprehensive, the FJCAP is an unfolding process to translate community ideas into a next steps-guide to bolster momentum for collaborative change to improve food access and reduce food insecurity in the region.

Board Action

In June 2024 (12), the County Board of Supervisors (Board) directed the development of actionable steps the County can take to improve access to safe, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food while fostering collaboration with community stakeholders. On December 11, 2024 (11), the Board reviewed the action plan and directed staff to report back with details for implementing 13 specific unfunded actions; the report will inform the FY25/26 Budget process and will include cost estimates, timelines, and implementation needs. Key priorities directed by the Board include defining how food insecurity is measured, expanding community gardens and agricultural leases, supporting food recovery systems, increasing access to locally grown produce, and updating emergency response plans to incorporate community input for improving food access and food security during emergencies.

Background

Last summer, the Office of Sustainability and Environmental Justice (OSEJ) received more than 1,500 comments and ideas from community members to inform the FJCAP through one-on-one conversations, in-person and online surveys, and community roundtable events. Community feedback focused on six key themes:

• Capacity building to support current efforts;
• Cultural relationship of food knowledge and policies;
• Regional connectivity to food resources;
• Public support programs such as safety nets;
• Processes supporting meaningful community participation; and
• Food preparedness planning.

Participation included a wide range of individuals and groups – like the Live Well San Diego South Region Food Insecurity Work Group, Senate Bill 1383 Edible Food Recovery Work Group, San Diego Hunger Coalition, and the San Diego Food System Alliance. As the facilitator for collaborative development of County actions, OSEJ analyzed the community comments, ideas, and shared experiences and partnered with over twenty County departments. This resulted in 20 distinct actions in alignment with County programs and services, scope, expertise, and/or resources, from which the Board selected thirteen for further exploration.