Food Security Grants, Updated Strategic Plan Mark Hunger Action Month

Arlington County is recognizing Hunger Action Month this September by launching a new funding opportunity for local organizations working to address food insecurity and by releasing the updated Food Security Strategic Plan, a roadmap for strengthening food access and building a more resilient local food system over the next five years. Information about the Food Security Grant Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), including eligibility requirements and application deadlines, is available on the Arlington County website. 

Hunger Action Month is observed nationwide each September to raise awareness about food insecurity and inspire community action. In Arlington, an estimated 13.4% of residents, or approximately 31,500 people, experience food insecurity, meaning they do not always have consistent access to enough nutritious food to support an active, healthy life. 

“Food security is about more than food. It is about health, economic stability, and laying a strong foundation for every single member of our community to live long and full lives,” said Anita Friedman, Director of the Arlington County Department of Human Services. “As we recognize Hunger Action Month, we are investing in local solutions through our Food Security Grants Program and providing a shared vision for how Arlington can continue addressing food insecurity in the years ahead.” 

The Food Security Grants Program, started in 2024, supports local nonprofit organizations working to improve food access, strengthen food assistance services, and address barriers that contribute to food insecurity. The new NOFA is aligned with priorities identified in the County's 2026–2030 Food Security Strategic Plan. 

Developed in collaboration with community partners, residents, and members of the Arlington Food Security Coalition, the strategic plan identifies three overarching goals: 

• Increasing access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food 

• Building a stronger food security network to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of food assistance services 

• Raising awareness of food insecurity and available resources to build community support and drive meaningful change 

“The Arlington Food Security Strategic Plan reflects years of collaboration among nonprofits, schools, faith communities, public agencies and residents who share a commitment to reducing food insecurity,” said Lily Duran, Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC) Chief of Member Services and member of the Arlington Food Security Coalition. “The release of this plan and Arlington County’s continued investment in Food Security Grants during Hunger Action Month demonstrate the community’s commitment to strengthening the programs, partnerships and community supports that help Arlingtonians access healthy and  nutritious foods they actually want to eat with dignity.” 

Food insecurity has increased in recent years as households contend with rising food prices, housing costs, and other economic pressures. The number of households receiving food from AFAC has more than doubled since 2020, reaching approximately 4,000 households each week in fiscal year 2026. 

Throughout Hunger Action Month, Arlington County encourages community members to learn more about food insecurity, volunteer with local food assistance organizations, support community food programs, and help raise awareness about available resources. 

More information about food assistance resources is available at Arlington County's Food Assistance webpage.  

Information about the Food Security Grant NOFA is now available.  

The 2026–2030 Food Security Strategic Plan is also now available. 

About the Arlington County Department of Human Services 

The Arlington County Department of Human Services provides support for every stage of life. Serving more than 58,000 people each year, Human Services connects community members to essential resources and services, including housing support, food and financial assistance, healthcare, behavioral health services, child and family programs, aging and disability services, and employment resources. Together with community partners, the department works to foster a healthy, safe, and equitable Arlington where everyone can thrive.