This project will fund Community Food Initiatives, a non-profit in Appalachian Ohio, as we work for food justice and community resilience through building a thriving local food system. Donations to this campaign will fund school and garden programming, food access mapping, and our Donation Station, all of which promote valuation of regionally grown or produced food.
Currently, nearly 100,000 people in Appalachian Ohio are food insecure. Athens County, OH, where CFI is located, has the highest rate of food insecurity in Ohio, with about 20% of the population experiencing limited access to food (compared to the 12% national average). Furthermore, past reliance on now-depleted, non-renewable resources has had a negative impact on the economy.
CFI's programming addresses immediate food insecurity needs, encourages self-sufficiency for future food access, and builds a thriving regional food system through investing in regional food producers.
Since we launched the Donation Station in 2008, we have distributed over 500,000 pounds of local food products to food pantries and social service agencies in Southeast Ohio and reinvested over $100,000 into the local food economy. Our garden programming connects with individuals of all ages, from elementary students to senior citizens. Food access mapping identifies food deserts and allows us to connect with communities where healthy food access initiatives are needed.
