We greatly appreciate the support of each of our partners and donors. There are several ways to show your support of our work in developing the local food system including Membership options, donating, joining our local foods coalition, or getting involved in our current projects.
Current Projects
Grow. Eat. Play. Marketing Campaign
Evidence shows that small-scale and beginning farmers, along with farmers markets in underserved communities, require wider outreach. We’re expanding this regional marketing campaign by consulting these stakeholders, assess their needs, and develop an updated, comprehensive regional marketing plan. This includes high-quality marketing graphics, short videos, and templates for online and printed materials. Get involved by reaching out to communications@healthyharvestni.com.
NI Local Food Connections
This program is designed to provide networking and educational opportunities for beginning and existing small-scale farmers by coordinating local food events such as field days, workshops, and farmer meet-ups. Contact connection@healthyharvstni.com to get involved.
The Kitchen
This project aims to boost opportunities for local farms to create value-added products by increasing access to kitchen rental space, equipment, and education on licensing, food safety, financial management, and more. To get involved, reach out to education@healthyharvestni.com.
Cooking Up a Healthier North Iowa
In the latest Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) for MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center, food access ranked as the second-highest community health need, following mental health. Eight percent of the regional population faces food insecurity, exceeding the state average.
From July to December 2022, we distributed over 3,600 recipe cards at 55 events across 15 North Iowa communities. Engaging both adults and youth, Healthy Harvest hosted 18 classes, involving 150 participants. Email director@healthyharvestni.com to get involved.
Farm to School
This program allows us to partner with regional school districts, early care centers, local food hubs, extension offices, and more to increase the procurement of local foods into cafeterias for the youth of North Iowa, school garden and greenhouse activities, and related nutrition education in the classroom. Contact education@healthyharvestni.com to learn more.
North Iowa Local Food Coalition
The North Iowa Local Food Coalition serves as a broad-based effort to help identify and connect relationships, technical, business, and communication assets of local and regional food system development that improves the health, economic, and environmental sustainability of producers and communities in North Iowa. Email recipes@healthyharvestni.com to get involved.
