This project will work to improve food security in southeast Ohio during the winter months. Those facing food insecurity who receive food through Community Food Initiatives’ (CFI) Donation Station program will be impacted directly, along with local farmers.  As this project will contribute to longer-term improvements to the consistency of our local food supply, the greater community will benefit through an improved winter market and thriving economy.   

The Farm to Pantry Winter Food Campaign consists of three key interrelated steps:  

• Commission farmers to grow food during winter months. This is a critical need because supply through our local food system currently drops off drastically during winter months. As a result, the food supply to support CFI’s Donation Station program drops down to as low as 10% of the peak summer supply.  Commissioning farmers will not only increase CFI’s supply of produce, but will also drive a regional movement toward increasing winter or extended-season growing, ultimately building community resilience through working for year-round food security. 

• Support food recipients in maximizing use of local food during the winter months by sharing recipes and educational materials, including information on the benefits, value, and advantages of a local/seasonal diet and tips and tricks for simplifying meal prep while maximizing nutrition and affordability.  

• Support future food security by sharing recipes and educational materials with food preservation tips and methods, as well as tips for future small-scale gardening.

This Cause Connector project supports the commission of 8 local farmers.

Many Appalachian Ohio communities face high rates of food insecurity, a problem that has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This project helps to enhance food security over both the short- and long-term, making an immediate difference for families while also strengthening the local food economy through direct support to farmers.