Community Food Security VISTA Project in Iowa

Community Food Security VISTA Project in Iowa

The Community Food Security (CFS) VISTA Project in Iowa incorporates land access, transportation, and financial support as integral pieces to abundant food access and each person's opportunity to choose the foods they eat. We are actively working to increase food access, especially for those experiencing food insecurity. The CFS VISTA Project envisions a more just and equitable food future, in which all Iowans have bountiful access to culturally-relevant, locally grown and produced food. Sponsored by the Center for Energy & Environmental Education at the University of Northern Iowa (UNI), the CFS VISTA Project is an AmeriCorps program and a part of the UNI Local Food Program with sites across the state of Iowa.​

Community Food Security (CFS) VISTA Project in Iowa VISTA members serve among a cohort of CFS VISTA members throughout Iowa, building capacity in organizations with the intent to increase just and equitable access to culturally-relevant, locally grown and produced food. Members have frequent opportunities to share knowledge within this community through regular cohort-wide meetings and site visits. In addition to all standard AmeriCorps VISTA benefits, members regularly engage with thought leaders in local food, including individuals in coalitions such as the Cedar Valley Regional Food & Farm Network and the Regional Food Systems Working Group. All CFS VISTA members are invited to professional development opportunities coordinated by a VISTA Leader in their cohort. CFS VISTA members are motivated change-makers, passionate problem-solvers, and inspired community members who believe in a more equitable future Iowa in which all people are empowered and able to grow, source, and eat the foods they need and want.

If you are interested in learning more about our AmeriCorps VISTA program, please visit cfsvistaprojectia.org.

 

Volunteers harvest onions at a local farm
 

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