Feeding America and the Food Research and Action Center put on an amazing Anti-Hunger Policy Conference every spring. It is virtual this year (March 16-18), and Food Bank of Alaska will be sponsoring registration for up to 50 of our partners. It’s a great learning opportunity and a wonderful way to learn more about federal nutrition programs and policies. If you are interested in joining us, please fill out this form by February 28th. If you have questions, please reach out to Cara Durr: cdurr@foodbankofalaska.org.
Impacts of COVID on Hunger in Alaska
Food Insecurity Estimates for 2020
Feeding America's Map the Meal Gap estimates that in 2020, 32% more Alaskans need food assistance than before - that's 125,650 people, including 47,800 children (an increase of 44%).
This brings our estimated food insecurity rate in Alaska to 17% overall, or 1 in 6. For Alaska's children, the estimated food insecurity rate is now just over 26%, more than 1 in 4.
The Kusilvak Census Area has emerged as the most food insecure region for children in the entire country, with an estimated 57% of kids being food insecure. The area ranks second for overall food insecurity. Map the Meal Gap study provides food insecurity data for all Alaskan boroughs/census areas.
Food Safety
Has your food worker card or food safety certificate expired?
Here are some options for Food Safety Training:
If your agency is within the Municipality of Anchorage:
Food Handlers Card - This is an online certification that develops a strong level of food safety knowledge. The course takes approx. 1 hour, costs $10 and is valid for 3 years
ServSafe - This is an 8 hour training required for an agency that prepares and serves food such as congregate meals. Alaska regulations require these types of agencies to have at least one person with this training on site when meals are prepared and served ServSafe classes are offered by Alaska CHARR.
FBA Food Safety & Orientation - This class is free to our partner agencies, valid for 3 years and is approx. 1 hour, via Zoom webinar every second Tuesday of the month at 2:30 pm. Warehouse orientation can be scheduled by appointment only.
If your agency is outside the Municipality of Anchorage:
DEC Food Handlers Card - This online certification is offered through the State of Alaska, Division of Environmental Health. Valid for 3 years. NOTE: You are also required to meet any additional requirements set by your specific jurisdiction.
FBA Food Safety & Orientation - This class is free to our partner agencies, valid for 3 years and is approx. 1 hour, via Zoom webinar every second Tuesday of the month at 2:30 pm.
