As we close the doors on this year’s Hungry for Action Conference, we are filled with gratitude and inspiration from the nearly 400 passionate attendees who gathered in Tulsa to confront the pressing issue of food insecurity in our state. Over the course of this event, we explored new strategies, forged invaluable connections, and ignited a shared commitment to action.
Key Themes and Takeaways
Our conference was packed with enlightening sessions, from breakout discussions on trauma-informed care to presentations on innovative programs like Double Up Oklahoma (DUO), aimed at ensuring SNAP recipients have incentive to buy fresh fruits and vegetables. Attendees came away with a renewed sense of purpose and a multitude of ideas for implementing change within their own organizations and communities.
Here are some of the main themes that emerged from our discussions and the feedback we received through the conference surveys:
- Collaboration is Key: Many participants expressed a desire to strengthen partnerships across various sectors. The call for collaboration was clear: to effectively tackle food insecurity, we must pool our resources and knowledge.
- Youth Engagement: Several attendees emphasized the importance of including youth voices in the conversation around food security. Initiatives like the Youth Action Council will play a vital role in empowering the next generation to advocate for their peers.
- Advocacy and Awareness: The idea that “food is medicine” resonated with many, highlighting a need to integrate nutrition into healthcare discussions. Participants committed to advocating for legislative changes to enhance food access and promote school nutrition initiatives.
- Utilizing Local Resources: Attendees expressed enthusiasm about connecting with local farms and promoting initiatives that support local food systems, such as increasing participation in farmers markets and SNAP outreach.
- Personal Growth and Empowerment: Many shared personal stories of empowerment and the impact of networking. Attendees felt energized and motivated to take back knowledge and tools to improve their practices.
Attendees’ Action Plans
Participants walked away with a clear vision for action. Here’s a glimpse of the commitments made:
- Increased Involvement: Several attendees pledged to deepen their engagement with organizations like the Childhood Food Security Coalition and explore new partnerships.
- Advocacy Initiatives: Plans to initiate advocacy days for school nutrition and petitions to raise awareness of food security were among the commitments made.
- Collaboration: Many expressed a desire to connect with fellow attendees to share resources and support each other’s efforts in combating food insecurity.
- Local Outreach: Efforts to promote programs like the DUO initiative and increase access to SNAP benefits were highlighted as critical next steps.
The Road Ahead
As we reflect on this year’s conference, let’s remember that the fight against food insecurity is ongoing and multifaceted. Each action plan, every new partnership, and the commitment to advocacy are steps toward a more equitable food system for all Oklahomans.
Let’s keep the momentum going. Reach out to those you met, share resources, and work together to amplify our collective efforts. Together, we can tackle food insecurity and build a stronger, healthier future for our communities.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this vital conversation. Let’s continue to be a source of hope and action in the fight against hunger.