Guided by the principle that food is a basic human right, Farms for Food Equity (FFE) has established a network of Maine farms that utilize an existing distribution infrastructure to provide hyper-local, nutritious, desirable, food to pantries and food assistance sites. FFE is currently working with 14 Maine farms, and four distribution partners.

Farmers experience food loss and inefficiencies for many reasons. Most notably, a lack of reliable market can prevent them from adequately investing in their business. Because Farms for Food Equity purchases these at-risk products (overruns, imperfects, etc), farmers have greater market confidence, better income predictability and are able to invest in their workforce. It’s a solution that strengthens our communities and builds resilience in our local food system.

Maine farms produce a diverse and abundant harvest each growing season, including some produce that may not meet retail standards due to cosmetic imperfections. However, these "off-grade" vegetables—like a crooked carrot, a pudgy cucumber, or curly green beans—are just as fresh, delicious, and nutritious. Farms for Food Equity purchases these farm-fresh and distributes them to food pantries and other food assistance programs, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most.

Food loss (a.k.a. food waste), is a challenge faced by most farms, with more than 30% of crops often left unharvested. This waste occurs for various reasons, including a lack of market demand, labor shortages, surplus plantings, or the need to transition to a new crop. Farms for Food Equity helps address this issue by purchasing excess produce either for distribution to pantries or for light processing which can preserve the products and ensure a steady supply of nutritious food to pantries throughout the off-season.