SLO Food Connects to Community Need
Project of SLO Farmers Co-op
The SLO Farmers Co-op (SLO) expanded Healthy Food Access programming by aggregating and distributing sustainable, local, and organic meat tailored to program recipients' cultural preferences. The initiative aimed to support historically underserved farmers by providing secure sales at a living-wage price point while enhancing food shares for Black, Muslim, Veteran, and income-vulnerable populations.
SLO, with its expertise in aggregation and wholesale order fulfillment, sourced products like beef, pork, chicken, goat, and lamb from 4-6 producers and 4 processors. The project's success was measured by achieving the planned product quantities, ensuring 100% sourcing from socially/historically disadvantaged farmers, and reaching 320 households. Qualitative data was collected on the impact of the project on farms, supply chain partners, and underserved communities. The collaboration aimed to provide highly desirable items not previously available due to budget constraints.
PROJECT UPDATE 1
In coordination with supplying farmers, with Wello, the projects recipient organization, meat processing and distribution schedules were created and finalized. SLO Farmers Co-op managed multiple butcher dates, purchased and delivered freezer equipment assisted three community centers in preparation to receive distributions, and provided 100 pounds of meat to All Seasons Transformation, a food recipient partner organization ahead of schedule. Key insights included a deeper understanding of the community groups served. A difficulty arose with Halal meat requirements for the COMSA community center, but was resolved by partnering, with Roskom Meats for Halal processing. Upcoming activities will involve frequent meat deliveries, pickups, inventorying, and invoicing.
PROJECT UPDATE 2
During this period, the SLO Farmers Co-op successfully maintained bi-weekly meat drop-offs, collaborating with partners like WELLO and Seasonal Harvest. Due to limited freezer space at Full Circle Community Farm, the team has been making frequent trips to a rented storage facility, highlighting the importance of efficient scheduling. They adapted to community feedback by providing goat meat in chunks, tailored to the preferences of the COMSA group. Key accomplishments include butchering and storing a significant amount of beef and pork, fulfilling delivery objectives. The team gained insights into specific meat preferences and the logistical challenges posed by remote storage. Challenges included increased mileage and time spent on transport, particularly due to the switch in cold storage facilities, which is now more convenient. Looking ahead, they will continue deliveries until mid-November, followed by final grant reporting.
PARTNERS
Full Circle Community Farm (FCCF)
Northern Cold Storage
Wello, Inc
Cedar Wedge
SUPPLIERS
Becks Meats
Full Circle Community Farm
Glorious Goat Ranch
Prairie Folk Farm
Paulie’s Chop Shop
Pape Family Pastures
Quality Cut Meats
Roskom Meats
