Community Food Cohort

The Community Food Cohort (CFC) is made up of BIPOC and grassroots leaders from the local food system community. Together, their goal is to guide equitable access and distribution of Wake County Food Security Plan funding as Wake County works to move to a more resilient local food system. Members are compensated for their time and develop frameworks, rubrics, and priorities for projects outlined in the plan. For example, they helped design the application process, define evaluation criteria, and review applications for the Communal Gardens Support Grant, which falls under Strategy Two of the Plan.

The CFC is funded for three years in partnership with CAFN and the Wake County Manager's Office - County Manager’s Office. The Wake County Manager's Office plays a crucial role in supporting the CFC, particularly in ensuring that funding is responsibly distributed and that historically marginalized communities are empowered to lead and access resources. The work of the CFC aligns with the Wake County Manager's Office commitment to addressing systemic inequities in food access, and ensuring that our efforts in the Wake County 2023 Food Security Plan are responsible. Through these partnerships, we aim to create a more just, sustainable, and responsible food system for all. This collaboration aims to channel resources toward communities in need and empower community-led organizations to spearhead initiatives that enhance their local environment. The CFC aims to:

the goal is to direct funds to communities in need and empower community-led organizations to take the lead in improving their communities.

Resources and News

Learn more about the work of FJC members:

• Panoramica Strategic Communication

• Black Farmers’ Market

• NC Young Farmers and Ranchers

• YMCA TRIANGLE

• Fertile Ground Co-op