Nourishing the Earth: How Chester County Food Bank Champions Sustainability
On this Earth Day, we reflect on the role we play in environmental impact. Our journey towards a greener future isn’t just about nourishing our neighbors–it’s about nourishing our planet too.
Local Farming: A Rooted Connection
At the heart of our sustainable efforts lies a deep partnership with local farmers. By sourcing produce locally, we reduce transportation emissions while supporting our community’s agricultural economy. Since 2013, we have been growing our own seedlings and managing land at our farm partners, increasing production and diversifying our crops. With the help of over 2,000 volunteers each season, we grow and harvest over 160,000 pounds of produce!
Familiar Foods: A Taste of Home
Our connection to locally grown food extends beyond nourishing the planet. By prioritizing the cultivation of familiar foods like tomatillos, we are honoring the traditions and tastes that bind us together as a community. With their tangy flavor and vibrant green husks, tomatillos are more than just a culinary delight; they represent a connection to the community we serve. Because we believe everyone should have equitable access to nutritious and familiar food.
Composting: Closing the Loop on Waste
In 2023, we diverted a staggering 28,000 pounds of food waste from landfills through composting. This nutrient-rich compost returns to our local farm partners, enriching the soil and closing the loop in our food system. From kitchen scraps to garden gold, every pound composted is a step towards a more sustainable future.
Together, We Can Go Beyond Hunger
This Earth Day, we invite you to join us in making a difference. Whether it’s volunteering in our processing kitchen sorting local produce, supporting local farmers, or practicing composting at home, every action, no matter how small, contributes to a healthier planet for future generations. Together, we can go Beyond Hunger and cultivate a brighter, greener future for all.
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The Chester County Food Bank is the central hunger relief organization serving more than 160 food cupboards, meal sites, and social service organizations throughout Chester County. We mobilize our community to ensure access to real, healthy food.