Valley Grows Giving Day is May 19th. Our Giving Goal for 2021 is $20,000
Thanks to the generosity of two families, Just Roots is proud to announce two challenge grants totalling $7,500 which will help us reach our giving goal on Valley Grows Day.
Your Gift, on Valley Grows Day Will Help Support:
- CSA subsidies to build equitable access to local, fresh food: We aim to reach 250 local families from all across Franklin County with 20 weeks of fresh, local produce and herbs, and resource them with recipes, kitchen, cooking and storage tips as well as access to our on farm Pick Your Own Garden. Our sliding scale and subsidy program allow for low and moderate income families to gain access and become members of the Just Roots CSA. Funds from Valley Grows Day will support our subsidy program.
- Infrastructure for year round food access: Prior to the Covid 19 Pandemic, Just Roots saw an increase in demand for our CSA Program, and demand has now doubled during Covid – reaching an estimated 500 families in Franklin, Hampshire, Hampden and Plymouth counties in 2021. Funds from Valley Grows Day will support our investment in the gaps that were revealed in our facilities which are limiting our food security response to the pandemic. Our facilities lack winterized space and water, sufficient storage for produce, indoor wash/pack and storage station, staff bathroom and hand washing facilities. These gaps lead to inefficiencies and safety concerns that prohibit a robust response to food insecurity during Covid and beyond.
- Community Engagement: Amidst the pandemic and as it recedes, Just Roots’ commitment to community engagement remains solid. Funds from Valley Grows Day will support community engagement activities and initiatives aiming to empower community members most impacted by food insecurity and or a lack of access to local, healthy food and provide access to leadership roles.