Organizing and activating networks for policy changes are hallmarks of a healthy democracy. In this moment, food policy councils (FPCs) are responding to federal funding freezes, harmful federal food system policies, and communities in crisis. Their ability to address community needs on the ground and in collaboration with their local representatives can help communities weather challenges at the federal level. Strong FPCs also create stable political structures that outlast changes in administrations.
Food systems are complex and interconnected, and driving change requires collaboration and cooperation across sectors, geographic boundaries, and political ideologies. FPCs have served as convening bodies that promote civic engagement and provide platforms for communities to advocate for healthy, just, and sustainable food systems. With approximately 300 FPCs across the country, serving communities large and small, they bring together diverse actors to influence policy in their communities.
While FPCs have been around for decades, their prominence increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, largely due to their success in meeting communities’ rapidly evolving food system needs. Findings from Johns Hopkins’ Center for a Livable Future’s 2021 census found that 82% facilitated connections across food systems sectors, 76% advocated for policy changes, and 50% collaborated with government staff or elected officials to secure funding for food system services.
Join us for a deep dive on the work of FPCs. By highlighting the critical work they do, and some of the challenges they face, funders will come away from this webinar with actionable strategies to support and engage with FPCs near them.
What will you learn?
- Learn about food policy councils and the critical roles they play in advancing health, equity, and civic engagement around food.
- Discover tools to connect with councils in NJ, NY, and CT.
- Hear stories from local FPCs about how they’re responding to the shifting federal food policy landscape, deepening their equity work, and inspiring civic engagement in their communities.
- Meet two national organizations providing technical assistance and funding to food policy councils nationwide.
Who should attend?
All interested funders in grantmaking roles. What to expect: discussion followed by Q&A.
Speakers
- Jeanine Cava, Executive Director, NJ Food Democracy Collaborative
- Maura Ackerman, Executive Director, Syracuse-Onondaga Food Systems Alliance
- Marissa Baron, Executive Director, Food Policy Networks
- Laureen Husband, Independent Advisory Committee, Better Food Policy Fund
How do you sign up?
Registration is required by March 23rd.
Members and Non-Member Funders: Please click on the "Register Now" link above. Dial-in and webinar information will be emailed to you before the webinar.
Please email register@philanthropynewyork.org with any questions.
