The Mission: The mission of the Hartford Food System (HFS) is to fight hunger and improve nutrition for disadvantaged members of the Hartford community through sustainable, non-emergency strategies. The organization accomplishes this through programs that improve access to nutritious and affordable food, by helping consumers make informed food choices and by promoting responsible food policies at all levels of government.
Background: Since its creation in 1978, HFS has been a leader in grassroots efforts to fight hunger and improve nutrition in low-income neighborhoods. It was an early advocate of what has now become a national movement to link the well being of urban communities with sustainable agriculture and a more equitable food economy. This work is guided by three strategies designed to reinforce one another:
1) Increase access in the city to normal food outlets, particularly grocery stores and farmers markets.
2) Deepen the connection between food consumers and agricultural production.
3) Advance public policies that improve the affordability and quality of food.
Over the course of three decades, Hartford Food System has led many projects, initiatives and collaborations to address a range of food cost, distribution, production, access, food policy and nutrition problems. The organization actively partners with other organizations and agencies to achieve its mission.
About our chapter and programs: The Healthy Food Retailer Initiative was started in 2006 and is designed to give practical incentives and grassroots publicity to persuade neighborhood retailers to increase the shelf space devoted to healthier grocery items. The work has included interactions with city officials and merchant associations to identify additional ways to help these businesses thrive. The Grow Hartford program is operating an urban CSA in central Hartford for its seventh season in 2010. Grow Hartford’s expansion has transformed three of Hartford’s vacant lots into vibrant, productive assets in the community, while providing the opportunity for local youth to get a hands-on learning experience with food and agriculture. A coalition of organizations including the Hartford Food System launched the North End Farmers Market in the summer of 2008. The North End Farmers Market is a grassroots victory for North End residents who have long desired a farmers market in their own community. Throughout the summer and fall, the market provides fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. On behalf of the City, Hartford Food System also oversees activities of the City of Hartford Commission on Food Policy, which is one of the longest active municipal food councils in the nation.
Volunteer Needs: Community volunteers are a key component of the Grow Hartford Program. We are anticipating a record harvest and anyone with an interest in supporting local, organic agriculture is welcome to come and get their hands dirty with us. We would also appreciate volunteer support in the areas of marketing and grant writing. Contact the main office at (860) 296-9325 or send us an email at hartfordfood@hartfordfood.org.
Staff and Board Contacts:
Martha Page , executive director
Hugh Murray – president, board of directors
Jane Zebrowski– vice-president, board of directors
John Weedon – secretary, board of directors
Kellie Fenton – treasurer, board of directors
Contact Information:
86 Park St. 2nd Floor
Hartford, CT 06106
(860) 296-9325
