The Downeast Food System Partnership (DFSP) is a new 2-year program created by GrowSmart Maine, Healthy Acadia, and Sunrise County Economic Council in collaboration with the Hancock County Planning Commission. The goal of the DFSP is to improve food production and distribution across Washington and Hancock Counties.
The DFSP is one of only ten projects funded by USDA from across the United States focused on regional food system partnerships. The DFSP has been awarded$152,952 with $95,600 in matching funds to plan and design an initiative focused on helping more people in the Downeast region grow and access affordable, locally grown food, and assist local farmers and others involved in the local food economy to make a sustainable living.
The DFSP is based on extensive consultation with a diverse set of stakeholders in Hancock and Washington Counties over the last 12 months. Moving forward, the DFSP will continue to bring people together to develop shared goals and plans, including increasing the region’s ability to process and sell food from local farmers and producers, including value-added products. Additionally, the DFSP will work with key stakeholders, including Hancock County Planning Commission, to make recommendations for a Downeast Food System Plan. This plan will include strategic, fundable project proposals to achieve the shared vision of the regional food system.
Denise Cilley, Associate Director at Sunrise County Economic Council said, “Together, partners in this initiative aim to build a resilient, regional food system that supports our farmers, fishers, and communities and ensures access to fresh, affordable, and locally grown food. At SCEC, we are ready to partner in this collaborative initiative that aligns with our commitment to sustainable economic development and improving the quality of life for all Washington County residents.”
The DFSP’s work will benefit a range of groups, including farmers, food processors, distributors, and value-added producers; communities struggling with food insecurity, especially in Washington County; institutions and organizations that serve vulnerable populations; and businesses like restaurants, grocery stores, and farmers markets that want to offer local foods.