Michigan is making strides in local food access. The ValleyHUB at Kalamazoo Valley Community College has become a key example for a new program called Good Food for Michigan. This initiative aims to help schools, hospitals, and other institutions buy food locally.
Tim Boring, the program’s director, highlighted its importance during a chat with Brownfield. “We’re breaking down barriers,” he said, emphasizing the goal of making local food more accessible to large buyers. By connecting these institutions with local farms, the program not only boosts local agriculture but also enhances food availability in communities.
Historically, institutions faced challenges when sourcing food from nearby farms. According to a recent report by the USDA, about 70% of schools in Michigan want to source food locally but struggle with procurement processes. This new initiative could change that dynamic.
Moreover, the move towards local sourcing has gained traction on social media. Hashtags like #LocalFoodMovement are trending, with users sharing their positive experiences of locally sourced meals in schools and hospitals. Such sentiment indicates a growing community interest in supporting local farmers and healthier eating.
In summary, Michigan’s Good Food for Michigan Project is set to reshape how institutional buyers approach local food. By fostering connections between producers and buyers, it promises not just economic benefits for farmers but also healthier food options for the community.
Source link
fine day, fine day radio, fine day fm, fine day media, have a fine day, weller radio, 102.3, 102.3fm, fine day 102.3
