Title
2023 Listening Sessions
During the first part of 2023, 30 listening sessions were conducted across Illinois to collect feedback on how to use the Local Food Purchase Assistance funds. Over 300 community members attended the listening sessions, and more than 150 potential partners were identified.
Background
Local Food Purchasing Assistance provides $28 million to strengthen the Illinois food system over two years. Funding from the program will buy food from socially disadvantaged farmers and distribute it for free through places in the community, such as nonprofits, food pantries, schools, and childcare centers. The program's goal is to ensure that the foods available to people who don't have enough to eat include items that are culturally important to them.
Sessions included growers, producers, distributors, food access staff, and advocates throughout Illinois.
"One thing we want to see is that this actually addresses systemic challenges, so that we're truly using this to change the system as opposed to just shoving food through a pipeline that is broken."
Listening Session Learnings
Infractrusture Supports
There is a need for infrastructure to support the local food system including transportation and distribution networks, cold storage, packaging, labor, processing facilities, mobile markets, and ease of access.
Agribusiness Development
Opportunities for local agribusiness development were identified that will expand and strengthe our local food system. Needs include cultivating new markets, tools for marketing and businesse development, cost containment, mentoring, succession planning, land access, and connections to local distribution networks.
Meeting Consumer Needs
Consumers are often disconnected from where their food comes from. There is a need to raise awareness about foods grown in Illinois and how they get to the consumer. Consumers want more cultural food options and easier access to food through alternative delivery models. There is a need to ensure food does not go to waste by helping with skills in meal prep and food storage.
Building Relationships
Consumers need help building relationships with their local farmers. Farmers need support connecting to places to sell or distribute their food. Many groups need help connecting to farmers, particularly socially disadvantaged farmers. Sharing best practices and mentoring can support the system. Engaging local, state, and federal policy makers can drive future funding opportunities and support for local food systems.