Delaware Establishes Farm to Community Program to Boost Local Food Systems and Access
Delaware has codified and expanded its Farm to Community Program, aiming to strengthen the state's local food system and increase access to healthy, seasonal foods. The program, administered by the Delaware Department of Agriculture in coordination with the Delaware Farm and Food Council, seeks to extend the purchasing power of community outlets to procure and distribute local food products. This initiative is designed to stimulate increased food production by creating more market demand and predictability for Delaware farmers. It also aims to expand food availability by enhancing transportation and distribution capacities. The program defines 'local food products' to include fresh or lightly processed fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and eggs produced in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Virginia, with a priority on Delaware-sourced products. Community outlets, such as food pantries, schools, and senior centers, will be eligible to receive funds to procure and distribute these local product...
