Local Foods And Small Farms Videos

From Local Ingredients to Hearty Meals: Supporting Veterans with IL-EATS

The Joseph Center is a transitional living facility that empowers veterans to achieve self-sufficiency. With support from the IL-EATS program, chefs at The Joseph Center turn local ingredients into hearty, home-cooked meals that nourish veterans and support their journey toward independence....

IL-EATS Delivers Dignity, Local Food, and an Applesauce Surprise

At the Collinsville food pantry, Director Stacy Jones makes sure every client is treated with dignity. With help from IL-EATS, they’re able to provide high-quality, locally sourced food that aligns with their mission. One client loved the applesauce—and received a heartwarming surprise when she...

Heirloom Grains to New Customers: IL-EATS and a Phone Call

Andy Hazzard of Hazzard Free Grains grows heirloom corn, oats, and wheat to nourish her community. Through IL-EATS, she gained a reliable sales outlet and opportunities to invest in her farm – and received a phone call she never expected. 

Architect-Turned-Farmer Grows Mushrooms and Community

In 2019, Mei Shao left her career as an architect to become a mushroom farmer, a leap few would dare to take. With support from IL-EATS, it became a game-changing opportunity to grow her farm and give back to her community. 

How IL-EATS Helped a New Egg Farmer Hatch Profits

When Marty and his wife launched Kakadoodle Farm five years ago, they knew profit and scale wouldn’t come easily. But through IL-EATS, their egg business found the market it needed to grow and thrive.