The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources announced on Apr. 27 that the North Coast Emergency Food System Partnership is nearing completion of its Community Emergency Feeding Framework, a project aimed at improving food security and disaster response across six counties.
The initiative seeks to build stronger connections between farmers, ranchers, fishers, dairy producers, emergency food providers, and local organizations to better prepare for future disasters. The effort comes as part of a grant-funded partnership active through September 30, 2026.
A major goal of the project is the development of the Community Emergency Feeding Framework (CEFF), which will document resources and clarify roles among non-profit organizations and agricultural producers who support community feeding efforts both daily and during emergencies. The framework aims to coordinate strategies before disasters occur in order to avoid duplication of efforts and address food needs equitably. According to the announcement, “Addressing the challenges of disaster feeding requires a coordinated, adaptive strategy that is best established before a disaster.” The plan specifically focuses on meeting community feeding needs outside government shelter operations during emergencies.
A Steering Committee composed of representatives from county and municipal governments as well as key community-based organizations has been guiding development of the CEFF. One objective is to clarify responsibilities for food provisioning during disasters with an emphasis on communication between government agencies and non-profits. The plan covers mobile feeding options, community-based responses, links with emergency shelters’ feeding operations, and addresses immediate rather than long-term food security needs.
The Sonoma County Community Emergency Feeding Plan will be maintained by core stakeholders through annual exercises designed to keep it current for disaster preparedness purposes. Increased coordination among partners is expected to improve food security throughout all phases of disaster response according to organizers.
As documentation wraps up this summer, organizers are planning a Tabletop Exercise later in the year to test components of the plan. Those interested in learning more or participating can contact Mimi Enright at UCCE Sonoma.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources secures funding through public contributions according to its official website. The organization promotes sustainable practices for resilient ecosystems and economic vitality according to its official website. It utilizes nine research and extension centers representing California’s diverse ecosystems according to its official website, conducts over 33,800 educational events annually with more than 18,400 volunteers according to its official website, manages Cooperative Extension services within the University of California system according to its official website, and has gained recognition for linking research with community needs according to its official website.