The UNI Local Food Program works to develop a local and regional food system that positively impacts local farmers, consumers and businesses through education, collaboration, and economic development.
CURRENT WORK
- CEDAR VALLEY REGIONAL FOOD & FARM NETWORK (CVRFFN)- We lead the Cedar Valley Regional Food & Farm Network. A coalition of individuals, food and farm businesses, UNI Local Food Program, Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Iowa State University Extension & Outreach, and other community organizations & leaders working together to positively impact the local food system. Follow us on social media! Facebook and Instagram
- SERVICES TO FARMERS - We help local farms find local markets, build connections among farmers, and offer educational programs to assist direct-marketing farms in our region. Farmers and local producers can attend our Networking Event on January 24, 2024.
- SERVICES TO INSTITUTIONAL FOOD BUYERS - We connect schools, grocers, restaurants, and distributors with local farms. Buyers can attend our Networking Event on January 24, 2024.
- LOCAL AND REGIONAL FOOD SYSTEMS EDUCATION - Our staff and partners develop tools and experiences that make it easier for everyone to see and appreciate the local food treasures of our region. We publish a local food guide each year that you can find at www.cvfoodfarmnetwork.org. Join us for the Farm to Fork Dinner on February 7, 2024.
- NOURISH IOWA VISTA PROGRAM - Building community capacity to increase food access for all Iowans, especially those who experience food insecurity, in order to create a more just and equitable food future, in which all Iowans have bountiful access to culturally-relevant, locally grown and produced food. Projects include increasing community garden capacity, free produce distribution programs, various efforts to increase land access, and nutrition assistance programming. If you are interested in serving with our program, you can find more information on our website at www.nourishiowa.org
- A GARDEN IN EVERY LOT - A Garden In Every Lot aims to renew our community’s culture of backyard gardening. We help both individual community members and community organizations overcome barriers to starting a garden. We accomplish this by offering garden site assessment & preparation, tilling, seeds, and plant starts, and by helping community members work with local landlords and governmental bodies. In concert with our community partners, we help coordinate gardening-focused educational programs and community-building events. Find more information on our website at www.agardenineverylot.org