For Immediate Release:
Contact: Roland McReynolds
Phone: 919 542 2402 ext 106
Email: [email protected]
North Carolina Food Hubs Extend Heartfelt Thanks to NC Department of Agriculture and Farmers
Pittsboro, NC – This holiday season, North Carolina’s food hubs are sending a big, warm “Thank You” to the NC Department of Agriculture and farmers across the state for their steadfast support. Together, these partnerships have strengthened local agriculture, bolstered the economy, and ensured that families across the state have access to fresh, nutritious, and locally grown food. The FarmsSHARE program, a key initiative supported by the NC Department of Agriculture, has achieved remarkable results in 2024, helping farmers expand their markets and ensuring local produce reaches those who need it most.
Program Highlights
- 1,033,654 pounds of food distributed
- 138 community distribution partners
- 253 farmers participating in FarmsSHARE
- 92,671 boxes of local food delivered to North Carolina residents
- $4,521,597 invested in food systems, including $2,829,236 directly supporting farmers
- $9.04 million in local economic impact statewide
Surveys show overwhelming farmer satisfaction:
- 95% of farmers rated the program 5/5.
- 81% of farmers said FarmsSHARE was their best alternative market channel.
- 94% of farmers stated the program was worth the extra time and effort.
“Farmer Foodshare has been a great addition to the outlets for my farm! Working with them has been awesome, and I would love to see them continue to grow, providing more opportunities for myself and other farmers,” said Cliff Pilson of CV Pilson Farm in Cameron, NC.
“The FarmsSHARE program has made a tremendous economic impact on our operation. We have expanded our growing season because of the new marketing opportunity. By working with food hubs through this program, we have been able to increase crop production and revenue,” shared Kara Dodson, Full Moon Farm in Triplett, NC.
Farmer Stories Highlight Impact
The success of FarmsSHARE extends beyond the numbers. Farmer stories (available upon request) illustrate the program’s life-changing impact, showcasing how these investments have supported local growers in expanding their operations and bringing fresh, locally grown food to communities.
Gratitude for a Shared Vision
“What we’re demonstrating is how local food systems across the country, with the right support and investment, can enhance the health of under-resourced communities and can advance food justice and food sovereignty in our nation,” Roland McReynolds, Executive Director of Carolina FarmStewardship Association. “We are incredibly grateful for the NC Department of Agriculture, the states’s food hubs, and the farmers who make this work possible. Their dedication has helped us grow a stronger, more resilient food system that benefits everyone—from farmers to families. This program is proof of the power of collaboration and investment in local agriculture.”
For more information or to request interviews with participating farmers or food hub representatives, please contact Roland McReynolds at [email protected].
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