Celebrating 25 Years
Alaska Food Coalition
Food Bank of Alaska proudly sponsors AFC, acting as its fiscal agent since 2001. Through advocacy, research and coalition building, we address the root causes of hunger and work toward long-term, sustainable solutions.
Our History
Established in 1996, the Alaska Food Coalition began as an initiative supported by the Alaska Department of Health and Human Services (now DHSS). Initially, the coalition focused on helping agencies and village councils access food resources and funding opportunities to support food security programs. Over time, AFC evolved into a statewide advocacy and education force, working with lawmakers, community leaders, and partner organizations to enact meaningful policy changes.
In 2001, AFC transitioned to Food Bank of Alaska, allowing it to access broader funding streams, including federal USDA grants, which continue to sustain the coalition today. AFC's work has expanded to include legislative advocacy, research on food insecurity, and support for local food programs through mini-grants and partnerships.
Our Mission
We are committed to ending hunger in Alaska by:
✔ Advocating for policies that strengthen nutrition programs and food access.
✔ Conducting research to inform decision-makers and the public about food insecurity.
✔ Building a statewide coalition to coordinate anti-hunger efforts and amplify impact.

OUR WORK
Advocacy & Education
AFC is at the forefront of policy change and public awareness efforts. Each year, coalition members travel to Juneau for the Legislative Fly-In, where they:
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Engage with policymakers to advocate for stronger food security policies
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Participate in discussions about state and federal hunger relief programs
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Present real-life stories and data to illustrate the impact of food insecurity on Alaskans
Key Advocacy Wins:
- Securing SNAP emergency allotments during COVID-19
- Expanding school meal programs and increasing funding for child nutrition
- Removing the drug felony ban for SNAP eligibility, ensuring access for those in need

OUR WORK
Research & Data
AFC plays a critical role in data collection and research to drive evidence-based solutions. Our research initiatives include:
- Partnering with Feeding America on the Hunger in America study to assess food insecurity trends
- Conducting Alaska-specific research to identify gaps in food access
- Sharing reports and findings with legislators, community leaders, and local organizations to inform policy decisions

OUR WORK
Coalition Building & Partnerships
AFC believes that collaboration is essential to fighting hunger effectively. By connecting food pantries, state agencies, tribal councils, and nonprofits, AFC:
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Facilitates information sharing to strengthen local food systems
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Supports grassroots advocates working on hunger relief initiatives
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Helps member organizations access funding and program resources
Member Organizations Include:
✔ Kenai Peninsula Food Bank
✔ Alaska Children’s Trust
✔ NeighborWorks Alaska
✔ Bristol Bay Native Association
...and over 140 more partners statewide!
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OPPORTUNITIES
Mini-Grant Program
Alaska Food Coalition administers annual mini-grants to support food security initiatives across Alaska. These grants have funded:
- New freezers and refrigerators for food pantries, ensuring food safety and longevity
- Shelving and storage solutions to improve the efficiency of food distribution programs
- Infrastructure improvements that enhance food access in remote and underserved areas
Stay tuned for our next mini-grant application period in October 2025.
Ketchikan Presbyterian Church Food Pantry
Freezer Installation
2025 WINNER
Nenana Tortella Council on Aging
New refrigerator
2025 WINNER
Anchor Point Food Pantry
Shelving, tables and chairs
2025 WINNER
Kotzebue Church of God Food Bank
Chest freezer
2025 WINNER
Nikolai Elder Nutrition Program
Electric stove and large bowls
2025 WINNER
Copper River Basin Resource Council
Improved floor strength
2025 WINNER
Naknek Native Village Council
Shelving
2025 WINNER
Breadline and Stone Soup Café
Insulated food carriers and melamine bowls
2025 WINNER
Nulato Village
One large freezer and heavy-duty shelves
2025 WINNER
Kenai Senior Center
Shelving
2025 WINNER
Contact Us
Alaska Food Coalition
c/o Food Bank of Alaska
2192 Viking Dr, Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone: 907-222-3111
Email: rmiller@foodbankofalaska.org