CFI is fortunate to work in close partnership with local and regional organizations that have aligned missions. Together, we are creating systems-level change and increasing long-term resilience in our communities. Collaboration is one of our core values, and it's because of collaboration that we can develop impactful and sustainable initiatives. Learn more about our partners below!
Appalachia Accessible Food Network
Overview
The Appalachia Accessible Food Network is a collaborative project to accelerate the distribution of local food into Appalachian Ohio communities by strengthening access, production, and consumption components of a local food value chain. This network is made possible through the sponsorship of the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation of Nelsonville. The AAFN makes an impressive collective impact! Check out the AAFN Annual Report below, and email Tessa Weineke at tessaw@acenetworks.org for more information.
Partners
Rural Action's Sustainable Agriculture Program works with stakeholders ranging from farmer to consumer, focusing on development of regional food system through education and community organizing. They own and operate the Chesterhill Produce Auction, a social enterprise and key market for Appalachian farmers.
The Appalachian Center for Economic Network (ACEnet) has invested into the regional food system by serving as a business incubator, operating the Food Ventures Center as a community kitchen, and the Nelsonville Food Hub to provide business planning, accessible and affordable kitchen, cooler and freezer spaces.
Community Food Initiatives provides high quality, local produce to area food pantries and agencies. They empower community participation and decision making in the food system through education on gardening, food preservation, seed saving and healthy cooking.
Beyond the close and constant collaboration we experience with the AAFN, we're grateful to have such a strong and expansive network of partners in the Southeastern Ohio region.
