In recognition of Hunger Action Month, the Food and Health Network spoke with the Food Bank of the Southern Tier to learn more about one of their innovative programs to increase access to healthy, locally produced food. The Healthy Harvest Program is a powerful tool for ensuring that children and families have access to nutritious, local food and for improving long term health. Below is an excerpt from an interview with Melissa Knowles, Food Sourcing Manager, Food Bank of the Southern Tier

How does the Healthy Harvest Program work?

Early in the year we worked with the growers to determine a price and product selection that represented the best use of the donated funds. The Food Bank and the farms entered into a Letter of Understanding specifying the terms of the agreement. As harvest season approached a plan was developed to incorporate farm pickups and distribution to agencies.

The innumerable health benefits of eating fresh, local produce is the mainstay of this program. Through August we have received over 115,000 pounds of produce that spans 25 varieties. Healthy Harvest also allows us the privilege of building relationships with local farms further indicating sustainability and local economy stimulation.