Become a Partner
If your organization wants to distribute IL-EATS foods, you MUST partner with a lead agency. If you would like support connecting with a lead agency, please contact us at uie-lfpa@illinois.edu.
Participation Benefits
- Receiving high-quality, fresh food for the clients you serve at no cost.
- Technical assistance.
- Networking opportunities with local food system partners.
- Connecting local eaters with farmers in their community.
- Food safety training.
Review the Community Partner Welcome Packet for a comprehensive guide to participating in the program. The Welcome Packet covers IL-EATS food safety requirements and helpful tips, the Allowable Foods List, and the Cultural Food Guide. It is a valuable resource for community partners distributing local food products.
Distribution models
Below are some examples of ways food can be distributed to underserved communities. This list is not exhaustive, and we encourage communities to be creative.
Summer food/snack programs
Feeding programs for unhoused individuals
Food box programs
Food pantry
Schools
Mutual aid
Novel ordering/pick up/delivery
Resources to help determine if your community is underserved
The resources can help determine if your community is underserved:
Food safety requirements
Sites distributing IL-EATS food must have at least one employee who has completed a Food Handler’s training, ServSafe, Food Service Sanitation Manager Certification, or Certified Food Protection Manager training. If sites need this training, they are short (30 minutes) and affordable ($10). Options for taking the training already exist, including this at-your-own-pace module. More information can be found on the IDHS website. Please contact uie-lfpa@illinois.edu if cost is a barrier to receiving this certification.