During the recent JCOS Sustainability Session on Food Waste held on December 3, 2024, the Southeast Alaska Food Bank highlighted its critical role in addressing food insecurity in the region. As the largest food bank in Southeast Alaska and one of the largest in the state, the organization serves a vital function, despite facing significant logistical challenges.

The food bank's representative emphasized the difficulties in transporting goods to and from Juneau, noting that shipping costs from Seattle and Anchorage are prohibitively high. This complicates efforts to distribute food to smaller communities like Haines, Petersburg, and others in the region. The representative pointed out that while they strive to serve the entire southeast area, their operations are limited by these transportation hurdles.

This discussion underscores the importance of local food banks in combating food waste and ensuring that residents have access to necessary resources. The challenges faced by the Southeast Alaska Food Bank reflect broader issues of food distribution in remote areas, highlighting the need for continued support and innovative solutions to improve food access for all community members.

As the meeting concluded, participants recognized the importance of addressing these logistical challenges to enhance food security and reduce waste in the region. The insights shared during the session will likely inform future initiatives aimed at strengthening the food bank's operations and expanding its reach throughout Southeast Alaska.