Food Works facilitates the development of a regional food economy in southernmost Illinois through initiatives that include its major programs: Southern Illinois Farm Beginnings, the Southern Illinois Farming Alliance, and the Community Farmers Market. New farmers and those wishing to successfully transition into “specialty crop” or organic agriculture benefit from the year-long Southern Illinois Farm Beginnings (SIFB) course that includes business planning and marketing support in the classroom as well as hands-on mentoring and apprenticeships in the field. Farm Beginnings is a program developed by the Land Stewardship Project and now operates in 11 regions in the U.S. The Southern Illinois Farming Alliance brings specialty crop and sustainable farmers together for Field Days, trainings, social events and peer-to-peer learning. In 2015, the Alliance hosted a farmer-chef mixer, Field Days, and a Grain+Pork+Poultry Summit. In 2016, the Alliance hosted forums on food hubs and convened a group of local producers advancing a collaborative marketing venture. In 2017, Food Works will continue its focus on farm viability through helping producers access new markets and improving skills. Food Works will also emphasize expanding access to local food through promoting Southernmost Illinois farmers markets, the use of SNAP, and the Double Up Food Bucks program for low income families.

Good Food Org Guide

Presented By Food Tank & The James Beard Foundation

Food Works

Food Works

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