Connect, learn, and collaborate with IL-EATS partners in Southern Illinois
St. Louis Area Foodbank will host the Southern Illinois Grow Gathering on Friday, April 11, bringing together IL-EATS lead agencies, farmers, community partners, and local leaders in Southern Illinois. As one of the IL-EATS sub-awardees, St. Louis Area Foodbank has built relationships with Illinois farmers and distributed their fresh, high-quality foods on their mobile pantry.
This regional gathering is an opportunity to connect with fellow IL-EATS participants, exchange insights, and see firsthand how LFPA funding is transforming local food systems. The event includes tours of the St. Louis Area Foodbank distribution center, their FARM: Food Access and Resource Market mobile pantry, and Liberty Orchard.
Tentative Schedule:
- Morning: Tour of the FARM: Food Access & Resource Market mobile pantry (Collinsville, Illinois)
- Late Morning to early Afternoon: Tour of Liberty Orchard (Edwardsville, Illinois)
- Afternoon: Lunch and tour of St. Louis Area Foodbank (Bridgeton, Missouri)
What are Grow Gatherings?
IL-EATS Grow Gatherings are regional meetings designed to bring IL-EATS farmers, food access leaders, and partners together for collaboration, learning, and relationship-building. Each event offers a behind-the-scenes look at the local food system in action through tours of IL-EATS farms, distribution sites, and lead agencies.
Why attend?
- Tour & learn from fellow IL-EATS farmers, community partners, and lead agencies
- Connect with the IL-EATS partners in your region working towards a better food system
- Share ideas, insights, and best practices from IL-EATS and beyond
- Enjoy a complimentary lunch
Register for a Grow Gathering near you!
- February 24, 2025: Northern Illinois at Rooted For Good
- June 2025: Central Illinois at Eastern Illinois Foodbank
- September 2025: Cook County at Black Oaks Center
Space is limited! Pre-registration is required.