About
History
The group was convened in 2010 by Cornell Cooperative Extension Oneida County; Rust2Green Utica; the Resource Center for Independent Living; and the City of Utica. It was also made possible with the support of a USDA Hunger Free Communities grant and the United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area.
Since 2010, the group has focused on helping strengthen the local food system, and advocate for economic development efforts that increase food system business opportunities for local food industries to produce value added products.
In March 2021, MVFAN partnered with Mohawk Valley Economic Development District, Inc (MVEDD) as a fiscal sponsor. The fiscal sponsorship between MVFAN and MVEDD empowers both organizations to have a more immediate and lasting impact on the diverse communities throughout the Mohawk Valley. MVEDD will be able to provide fiscal oversight, financial management, and administrative services to allow MVFAN to build on their capacity for current and future projects.
A resilient local food system is the foundation to position agriculture of all kinds and sizes as a job creating economic engine. By being an advocate for economic development efforts that focus on these value-added business opportunities, we are not only helping to create agriculture jobs, but are increasing access to healthy foods for all residents. This partnership is an important milestone in developing plans to address these and other food-related issues.
A Food Action Network For All
A successful network is a community where everyone can participate, contribute, and benefit from connecting with others. That’s why we are setting a table with space for everyone. We welcome you to grab a seat and join the conversation so that together, we can build a more resilient food system.
That being said, the Mohawk Valley Food Action Network is a work in progress. We have much to learn, including how we can create a hub for our countywide food system that over time will be a reflection of our community. We are committed to taking an approach to inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility as we develop our language and communications, outreach, and leadership.
Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding while we continue to evolve.
Our Partnerships
Mohawk Valley Economic Development District, Inc.
(MVEDD)
Cornell Cooperative Extension: Oneida County
Center for Agricultural Development & Entrepreneurship (CADE)