The Cowley County Food System Assessment was completed in December 2025. This document provides an overview of the local food system with statistics and information. The assessment examines the local food system through six key stages: production, processing, distribution, access, consumption and recovery. By analyzing each stage, the assessment provides insights into Cowley County's food security landscape, identifies gaps in the system, and offers strategies for strengthening local food resilience.  It helps provide a community snapshot of the current environment and need for the Community Health Improvement Plan.

The 2025-2028 Community Health Improvement Plan aims to implement strategies in schools, healthcare settings, and communities to support and expand local food systems. The effort also expands education and resource coordination with support for local food pantries. The plan also emphasizes increasing awareness of safety-net programs like SNAP and Sun Bucks and promoting the RISE Cowley Resource Directory. Kansas State Research and Extension leads this priority, with support from William Newton Hospital and other partners. These coordinated efforts aim to improve access to nutritious food, reduce food insecurity, and foster long-term community wellness.