We designed this tool kit to help communities assess if they make full use of the Federal nutrition assistance programs, to identify barriers to the food security of community members, and to seek opportunities for improvement. It is a product of Leadership 2000 and Beyond, an effort to adopt quality management principles in our mission to improve the nutrition of the Nation's population and end hunger. Its creation was a team effort, brought into existence by staff representing a cross-section of Food and Nutrition Service programs, regions, and offices.