Gifts & Gratitude
As winter blankets our gardens and the Veggie Van takes a well-deserved break, we reflect on a year of growth, shared stories, and impactful programs at Community Food Initiatives. Sprouts classes are moving indoors and Donation Station’s weekly produce boxes weigh about half as much these days as compared to peak season! The season's chill may have slowed the pace, but CFI’s work continues to nourish the communities we serve.
In 2023, we achieved remarkable milestones together. Over 65,000 pounds of food were shared with 50 pantries and partners, while 647 young gardeners thrived in Sprouts and educational programs. The Veggie Van made a difference with 73 events, welcoming 1,400 customers. Discovery Kitchen events and workshops shared the bounty, with over 1,670 samples sparking culinary inspiration. And when I say “we,” I truly mean it. CFI staff, interns, and service members are amazing, but there is literally no way this work could happen without the hundreds of partners, volunteers, farmers, advocates and supporters who make CFI’s programs possible.
CFI has a 30-year history as a membership organization because we knew from the beginning that this work needs--and benefits--all of us. In this season of gratitude, I truly thank each and every one of you for being part of this organization and believing in CFI’s mission and vision for a healthy, sustainable, thriving future for our farms, kids, and communities. CFI’s story is all of our story, and I hope that as you read this month’s newsletter you feel the joy, and pride, and hope of being part of something big, and true, and good--you truly are the Community in Community Food Initiatives. In the spirit of unity, I invite you to consider a year-end donation, ensuring CFI thrives in 2024 and beyond.
We wish you a holiday season of joy and plenty.
With Gratitude,
Maribeth
P.S. We've been sharing short interviews with community members on social media to help us tell the story of our work, and linked a few below in case you've missed them. We hope you find them as inspiring as we do!