Emergency Food Access Planning with VOAD
Dawn Institute is proud to partner with Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) in developing an Emergency Food Access Plan for Plumas County. This collaborative effort focuses on building a resilient, community-based food response network that can activate during times of crisis—whether due to wildfire, weather events, or supply chain disruptions.
Dawn Institute is working alongside local farmers, producers, nonprofits, and emergency response organizations to:
Map existing food resources and delivery systems
Identify gaps in food access for vulnerable populations
Create streamlined communication and logistics plans
Develop scalable models for food distribution during emergencies
Our goal is to create a replicable model that can be shared across other rural counties facing similar challenges. This proactive planning ensures that when disaster strikes, communities are equipped to respond swiftly, equitably, and locally—reducing reliance on external aid and strengthening regional food sovereignty.
Together with VOAD, we are laying the groundwork for a more food-secure future in Plumas County and beyond.
Want to get involved? We are seeking six service area coordinators across Plumas County to help us identify: food producers (ranchers, farmers), food providers (food banks, pantries, churches, grocery stores), food preparers (restaurants, schools, college), and food deliverers. These positions qualify for a stipend of $250.
Attend our next EPIC Zoom Meeting, June 16th 5:30-6:30pm.
