IL-EATS
Illinois Equitable Access Towards Sustainable Systems
Food System Support Network
Illinois-EATS is an opportunity to unite Illinoisans invested in building a resilient food system by supporting local farmers in providing fresh produce to underserved communities in Illinois. This program prioritizes ensuring culturally responsive fresh foods are available to food-insecure communities.
Title
What is LFPA?
The United States Department of Agriculture established the Local Food Purchase Assistance program to strengthen statewide food systems over two years. Funds will buy food from socially disadvantaged growers/producers and distribute it at no cost to community members. Illinois is committed to sourcing 100% of products from socially disadvantaged growers/producers and encouraging the distribution of culturally responsive foods. The primary goals of LFPA are:
- To support local and socially disadvantaged growers/producers by building and expanding their economic opportunities to get their products to markets.
- To deepen partnerships between growers/producers and community partners to support the distribution of local, farm fresh foods to underserved communities.