Food Charter

Sacramento Food Charter

The Sacramento Hunger Coalition supports "the fundamental right of everyone to be free from hunger," as stated in the United Nations Covenant on Social, Economic and Cultural Rights, and envisions our community free from hunger.  That vision, however, is far from present reality, as documented in the Commission's periodic study, "Hunger Hits Home," published in 1989, 1992, and 2004. 

To work toward that vision, the Hunger Coalition supports the following beliefs:

Every Sacramento resident should have access to an adequate supply of nutritious and affordable food.

Food security, or access to an adequate, nutritious diet, contributes to the health and well-being of residents while reducing their need for medical care.

Food brings people together in celebrations of community and is an important part of the region's diverse culture.

Food, and food production, is central to Sacramento's economy and the commitment to food security can strengthen the food sector's growth and development.

Therefore, to promote food security and sustainability, the Sacramento Hunger Coalition will, with the support of Sacramento County and City governments:

• Champion the right of all residents to adequate amounts of safe and nutritious food without the need to resort to emergency food providers;

• Advocate for income, employment, housing, and transportation policies that support secure and dignified access to the food people need;

• Encourage community gardens and other opportunities that increase food self-reliance, improve fitness, contribute to a cleaner environment, and enhance community development;

• Promote the preservation of local agricultural lands and support urban agriculture;

• Encourage the recycling of organic materials to nurture soil fertility and reduce waste;

• Foster a civic culture that inspires all Sacramento residents, and all city and county departments, to support food programs that provide cultural, social, economic, and health benefits;

• Support events highlighting the community's diverse and multicultural food traditions; and

• Partner with community agencies, residents' and cooperative groups, businesses, and government organizations to increase the availability of healthy foods and to achieve these goals.