PIERCE COUNTY – The GoodRoots Northwest Market Fresh Food Lockers program has won a VISION 2050 Award from the Puget Sound Regional Council. The awards recognize innovative projects and programs that help ensure a sustainable future as the region grows.
“This award is well deserved,” said Pierce County Councilmember Dave Morell (District 1). “In rural areas of Pierce County, access to affordable, healthy food options can be restricted or nonexistent because rural communities have limited transportation options. GoodRoots Northwest saw this and found an innovative solution with their Fresh Food Lockers, and they improved a whole lot more in the process. This team is leading the creation of a better, more sustainable food system that I believe we can replicate not just across the state, but nationwide.”
“Pierce County leadership saw that not everyone had easy access to fresh food and created a scalable, environmentally friendly, 24/7 access, grocery distribution network for vulnerable and rural populations,” said Josh Brown, Executive Director of PSRC. “We are excited to share this project with the region in the hopes that other communities might replicate it to meet the needs of their unique populations.”
The award will be presented today at the grand opening of new food lockers at the Orting Food Bank.
Additional food lockers are becoming available thanks to a grant secured with the help of U.S. Representatives Kim Schrier (WA-08) and Marilyn Strickland (WA-10).
VISION 2050 is the region’s plan for growth. By 2050, the region's population will reach 5.8 million people. The region’s cities, counties, Tribes, ports, agencies, businesses, and communities have worked together to develop VISION 2050 to prepare for this growth and serve as a guide for sustaining a healthy environment, thriving communities and a strong economy.
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