In this episode, Gunnison Country Times Publisher Alan Wartes talks with Jodi Payne, executive director of the Gunnison Country Food Pantry. She discussed her journey from volunteering in a shelter in Marquette, Michigan, to leading the food pantry in Gunnison. The pantry recovered over 200,000 pounds of food in 2023, with 60% sourced locally. They have 230 volunteers, including 125 regulars, and aim to supplement $150,000 in food purchases with local producers. The pantry also offers programs like the Gunny Pack for weekend meals for children, healthy snacks for schools, and a fresh mobile pantry. Payne emphasized the importance of addressing social determinants of health and community collaboration to combat food insecurity effectively.