We’ve Got Food Issues
For the last four decades, emergency food providers have been the main response to hunger and food insecurity. But a charity food system focused on things like “security” and “relief” cannot address deep injustice in the food system, remedy health disparities, or grow community-driven solutions. We need a new approach.
What Is A Good Food System?
Access envisions a thriving community where all residents have access to healthy and affordable local food. Good Food Systems approaches this vision by investing finances and relational capital into our local food economy, growing health equity to reduce health disparities, and supporting community power. Our sights are set on transforming West Michigan’s food system to become increasingly reflective of Good Food values with the belief that this transformation will uproot systemic poverty and lead to lasting change.
Good Food Is:*
*as defined by Michigan Good Food Charter
Fair
No one along the supply chain was exploited for its creation.
Green
It was produced in an environmentally sustainable manner.
Healthy
It provides nourishment and enables people to thrive.
Affordable
All people have access to it.
Good Food Systems Are:
- Accessible
- Equitable
- Fair
- Healthy
- Diverse
- Sustainable
The good food system promotes just and fair inclusion in a society where all people can participate, prosper, and have the power to make decisions.
The food system supports opportunities for everyone to be as healthy as possible, physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually.
Our Good Food Values:
Growing Health
Involves a Culture of Health framework and a real food approach
Engaging Community
Ensures community sustains their own vision of a thriving place
Place-Based Strategy
Help neighborhood institutions use community assets and offer support
Investing in Local Food Economy
Prevents poverty through job creation/workforce development in agriculture
Collaborative Capacity Building
Incorporates a framework of collective impact through partnerships
System Changes
Build a better system where healthy food is convenient and affordable
