Foods will be sourced through Kentucky food banks

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Oct. 31, 2025) – In response to the ongoing federal government shutdown, Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell has coordinated a statewide effort to help ensure Kentuckians continue to have access to food and support during this critical time.

Working together, Farm Credit Mid-America, Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation, Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance, Tyson Foods, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Evans Orchard and Cider Mill, and the Kentucky Association of Health Plans (KAHP) have partnered with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) and Feeding Kentucky to provide direct assistance to impacted families across the Commonwealth.

Together, these organizations have pledged significant financial and in-kind support:

•     Kentucky Association of Health Plans: $100,000
•     Farm Credit Mid-America: $15,000
•     Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation: $7,500
•     Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance: $7,500
•     Tyson Foods: Donation of nearly 20,000 pounds of fresh chicken products
•     Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield: $10,000
•     Evans Orchard and Cider Mill: $1,000

These contributions will go toward preparing and distributing food boxes through Feeding Kentucky’s statewide network, ensuring that families affected by the shutdown receive nutritious, Kentucky-grown meals.

“This is a shining example of Kentucky doing what Kentucky does best — coming together,” Commissioner Shell said. “Even when Washington can’t get its act together, Kentuckians don’t wait. We find solutions, work together, and make sure no one gets left behind. This collaboration shows that when agriculture, healthcare, and community unite, we can overcome any challenge.”

The initiative will help families in need and support local farmers and producers, as much of the food distributed through Feeding Kentucky will be sourced directly from Kentucky farms.

Melissa McDonald, Executive Director of Feeding Kentucky, said this partnership highlights what makes Kentucky unique.

“Addressing hunger in our state requires working together, especially now. We are so grateful for our strong partners at the Kentucky Department of Agriculture for bringing this group together to make this possible,” McDonald said. “This food will be sourced from Kentucky neighbors and shared with Kentucky neighbors through Kentucky’s food bank system that serves every county in the Commonwealth. This is a perfect example of what we can do when we work collectively to end hunger.”

 Commissioner Shell also praised KAHP for its innovation and vision in connecting agriculture and health outcomes.

“The Kentucky Association of Health Plans has been a key partner in advancing our Food Is Medicine work across the state,” Commissioner Shell said. “Its recent grant to Russell County Hospital is helping expand access to locally grown foods for patients and staff — improving health outcomes, supporting our farmers, and addressing food insecurity all at once. It’s a great example of how smart, local investment can create real change in both our healthcare and agricultural systems.”

Commissioner Shell commended the swift action and generosity of each partner organization, noting that their leadership reinforces Kentucky’s ability to take care of its own — even when federal systems fall short.

“This isn’t just about getting through a shutdown,” Commissioner Shell added. “It’s about showing what can happen when we take responsibility, lead with compassion, and put Kentucky families first.”

KDA encourages all Kentuckians who need help or who wish to help to visit feedingky.org to learn how to donate, volunteer, or support local food banks.

To learn more about KDA’s nutrition support programs, visit kyagr.com/consumer/supplemental-programs.