Kitsap Farmers Fighting Hunger

Kitsap Farmers Fighting Hunger is a community‑driven initiative that addresses rising food insecurity in Kitsap County while supporting the economic viability of local farms. The project was launched through a partnership among local farmers, WSU Kitsap Extension, and Kitsap Conservation District in response to increasing hunger and the loss of federal funding that previously helped food banks purchase fresh, local produce. 

Who the Partners Are:

The initiative is a collaborative effort involving:

• Local Kitsap County farmers, who grow and supply fresh, nutrient‑dense produce
• WSU Kitsap Extension, which helps convene partners, provide education, connect community support, and strengthen the local food system
• Kitsap Conservation District, which supports sustainable agriculture and farm viability

Together these partners work to ensure donations are efficiently converted into fresh food for community members who need it most. 

Who the Project Benefits:

Kitsap Farmers Fighting Hunger benefits:

• Food‑insecure residents of Kitsap County, including families, seniors, and individuals relying on food banks
• Local food banks, which receive fresh, locally grown produce that is often difficult to source through traditional donation channels
• Small and mid‑scale local farmers, who receive fair payment and predictable income for food grown specifically for hunger relief
  This dual‑impact approach ensures that both community members and farmers are supported at the same time. 

Why the Project Is Impactful

Hunger affects more than 22,000 people in Kitsap County, and recent cuts to USDA and other food‑access programs have created a critical gap in funding for fresh food purchases. Fresh, nutrient‑dense foods from local farms help support healthier outcomes for everyone in our community, yet too many families struggle to access them. Kitsap Farmers Fighting Hunger directly addresses this challenge by keeping food dollars local—community donations are used to purchase produce from nearby farms and deliver it quickly to food banks. This model strengthens the local food system, improves equitable access to nutritious food, reduces waste, and builds long‑term resilience for both farmers and families.

Through community support—especially during efforts like the Kitsap Great Give—this project turns generosity into tangible, local impact: supporting farmers, feeding neighbors, and building a healthier Kitsap County.