The Appalachian Farms Feeding Families program gets fresh, healthy food to people who need it—while also fairly compensating farmers. Our communities face unprecedented challenges right now. Many families struggle to access fresh foods. Farms in our region have lost market outlets with restaurant and other business closures. The Appalachian Farms Feeding Families program connects these farms with relief efforts. Read more in ASAP’s Local Food Guide.
Find a Site
In 2020, the Appalachian Farms Feeding Families program served 26 feeding sites in 18 counties, working with 28 farms. Between 3,000 and 4,000 families received fresh, local produce each week. We are continuing the program in 2021. Find a list of participating sites here. To date, we are working with 34 feeding sites and 29 farms, working in 22 Western North Carolina counties and the Qualla Boundary.
How It Works
ASAP works with food relief sites to assess needs on a community-by-community basis. Sites can include food banks, charitable prepared food services, or child and adult care feeding sites. Next, ASAP contracts with a farm to supply one or more sites. The contract can include subsidizing the cost of packaging, delivery, or products. It may be customized to fit different types of farms and relief sites.
If you are a farmer and would like your products to be considered for this program for the 2021 season, please complete this interest form.
If you represent a relief effort and are interested in partnering with ASAP on this program, please complete this form.
Hear the Stories
Farmers and food relief site staff are sharing their experiences with Appalachian Farms Feeding Families on ASAP’s Growing Local podcast. Hear how the program has helped their businesses and communities on these episodes:
- Ol’ Turtle Farm and the food pantry at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Marion, NC (aired Oct. 12, 2020)
- Redhill Farm and Yokefellow of Caldwell County (aired Aug. 17, 2020)
- Carringer Farm and The Community Table of Jackson County (aired July 13, 2020)
Support This Program
Appalachian Farms Feeding Families is a homegrown solution to the specific needs of our mountain communities. It draws on our rich culture of neighbors helping neighbors, particularly in times of need. Make a donation today to help ASAP continue this work.
