Food insecurities and food deserts pose significant challenges in the Jamestown area, affecting numerous residents. In response, local faith-based ministries and churches are taking action to alleviate hunger among those grappling with limited access to affordable and quality fresh food.
Conduit Ministries in Jamestown has initiated a weekly food truck program, providing assistance to residents facing food insecurities and offering resources to those in need. The truck operates on Sundays from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in Brooklyn Square. Sharon Clark, a volunteer and church member of Conduit Ministries, reported serving 40 meals, including three families, during the third week of operation, with an average of around 50 people each week.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines food insecurity as a household-level economic and social condition of limited or uncertain access to adequate food. Part of Jamestown has been declared a food desert, where it is challenging to purchase affordable or good-quality fresh food, particularly impacting those experiencing homelessness.
“We’re starting to see more and more unfamiliar faces who are coming for food,” notes Sharon Clark. “The first two weeks, the same group of people came back. We have one family of six who’ve been here every week, and you can tell they’re struggling.”
Conduit Ministries is not alone in its efforts. The Rev. Dodi McIntyre, speaking at a recent Chautauqua County Homeless Coalition meeting, emphasized the commitment of the faith-based community to continue offering services and food during the winter. The community will provide hot meals and warm beverages at the church's open house.
A USDA survey in 2022 revealed alarming statistics: 98% worried about their food running out before they could buy more; 97% reported their purchased food did not last due to budget constraints; 96% couldn't afford balanced meals; 95% ate less due to financial constraints; and 46% lost weight due to insufficient funds for food.
Residents like Isabella Quinones express gratitude for the assistance from churches, stating, “We are very hungry. I work and work, but everything is so expensive. Thank you to the churches who help with the food. I can’t see my kids go hungry too.” The community's collaborative efforts aim to address these pressing issues and provide support to those in need.