Greetings, LFRC Community!
Hello! I’m Kaya Patten-Fusselman, the new Executive Director of the Livingston Food Resource Center (LFRC) since February 2024. Many of you might remember me from my earlier role as the first Inventory and Procurement Manager at LFRC. Returning to food access work in Livingston, alongside my family, is both a privilege and a joy.
As I reflect on my first four months in this role, several key insights stand out:
- Food insecurity is traumatic: Experiencing uncertainty about where your next meal will come from affects every aspect of life. It's a profound stressor that we are committed to alleviating.
- Poverty is expensive: The hidden costs of poverty—be it in time, resources, or opportunities—compound the challenges faced by those we serve. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach.
- I get to work with the best team of staff and volunteers ever: The dedication and passion of our team inspire me daily. Their tireless efforts are the backbone of our mission, and I am continually amazed by their commitment and creativity.
- Our community is amazing: The support and generosity of our community never cease to amaze me. From donations to volunteer hours, your contributions make our work possible and impactful.
As we move forward, we are excited to share that we have begun drafting our 2024-2027 strategic plan. This comprehensive roadmap will guide our efforts over the next few years, ensuring we remain responsive to the needs of our community while striving for greater impact and sustainability.
This work is far from easy, but it is made infinitely more manageable and rewarding by the incredible support we receive from people like you. Together, we can continue to make a real difference in the fight against food insecurity and poverty in Livingston.
Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. We look forward to sharing more updates and milestones with you soon.
In Community,
Kaya Patten-Fusselman
Executive Director, LFRC
