Community Food Assessment (2024-2025)

OFAHC is leading a 2025 Community Food Assessment. The project began in 2024 and is expected to be complete in summer-fall of 2025. This assessment builds on the 2018 Food System Assessment and 2019 Food Action Plan. The assessment will provide an overview of the local food system with a focus on affordable food access. The goal is to inform future planning, programming, policies, and funding through a report and updated Food Action Plan.  

How is OFAHC conducting the assessment?

Focusing on Community Engagement

• In spring 2024, OFAHC team members presented the assessment plan to the Somerville Food Coalition, the Immigrant Services Coalition, at public outreach events, and through meetings with key stakeholders. This initial assessment helped shape the topic and question for the assessment.  
• From fall 2024-spring 2025, OFAHC has engaged a Community Advisory Group representing non-profits, other city departments, and community members to meet monthly and guide the assessment. OFAHC has also regularly shared updates on the assessment to the Food Coalition.
• In summer 2025, OFAHC will offer a public presentation of the report for feedback and to mobilize collective goal-setting and work. 

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Using Available Data AND Collecting New Information

OFAHC is using local program data, state data sources, census data, academic literature, and literature from local organizations to highlight relevant topics. OFAHC is also completing interviews with key stakeholders and community members to bring these data and literature to life.  

What is the timeline? 

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How can I get involved?

One key area of community interest for the report is understanding how people get the food they want and need on a limited budget. Want to share your thoughts on this? Complete the questionnaire here.  

OFAHC will be hosting public meetings in June 2025 to gather ideas on the draft assessment and identify goals and recommendations for a Food Action Plan. Check this page for more details to come.