We Feed WA
We’re on a mission to enhance food access and quality in Eastern Washington through the WSDA We Feed WA pilot program.
With over 89% of locally grown food leaving the state, we're challenging the status quo by keeping food local and resilient. Our produce boxes are packed with nutrient-dense, fresh, and unprocessed goods, enriching the diets of those facing temporary hardships. Beyond providing food, we support local farmers, promote healthy communities, and break down food scarcity barriers.
The Heart of 4 Roots
Welcome to the heart of Four Roots' commitment to community well-being through the We Feed WA Pilot Program. Initiated by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) in response to the urgent needs arising from the COVID-19 crisis, this program is a testament to our dedication to enhancing food access and quality in Eastern Washington. Join us in challenging the status quo, keeping food local, and fostering resilient communities.
Program Launched 2021
In July 2021, WSDA launched the We Feed WA Pilot Food Program as a state alternative to the expiring USDA Farmers to Families Food Box Program. This initiative fills the gap in Washington's food assistance safety net by fostering economic vitality among producers and creating food access for low-income people across the Spokane area, and the entire state. Our pilot program works closely with WSDA's established Food Assistance programs, ensuring a coordinated response to increased food insecurity.
Purpose
The primary purpose of this pilot is to facilitate the building and distribution of emergency food boxes and supplemental emergency food across Washington state. It targets hunger relief organizations, including those serving black, indigenous, people of color (BIPOC), and other socially disadvantaged communities. Four Roots stepped in as a partner to help utilize this program locally. This program is a crucial component of the state's coordinated response to increased food insecurity resulting from the COVID-19 crisis and recovery period but now is a more targeted, ongoing program for food relief.
Across the State
While the network of organizations engaged in WSDA's Food Assistance programs provides a substantial emergency food safety net, inevitable gaps exist. The We Feed WA pilot is strategically designed to fill these gaps, providing resources to partners like Four Roots with unique abilities to address and overcome access barriers in underserved communities. Spokane and the rural communities surrounding our area were some of the gaps that needed to be addressed - and that's where Four Roots stepped in. WSDA’s We Feed WA had a goal that went beyond food insecurity. To make this program successful, they collaborated with organizations across the state, each committed to feeding people and supporting Washington farms and food businesses.
Our Role in We Feed WA
At Four Roots, our role in the We Feed WA pilot is significant. We organize and assemble food boxes sourced from local and regional farmers, contributing to the program's mission of providing nutrient-dense, fresh, and unprocessed goods. These boxes are distributed by Four Roots employees throughout local areas in need, including low-income neighborhoods, public facilities for social services, and disaster relief locations.
Impacting Communities
With the launch of this program, Four Roots identified a critical need and filled it. The original contract enabled us to build a dedicated team that has grown with Four Roots as we expand into new fields. We're not just providing food; we're building careers, supporting local farmers, promoting healthy communities, and breaking down food scarcity barriers.
Moving Onward
In 2023, Four Roots was awarded the grant, solidifying our commitment to serving the community while supporting local farmers. As we look forward, our focus remains on enhancing food access, building resilience, and fostering a sustainable and equitable food system in Eastern Washington. We’re on a mission to enhance food access and quality in Eastern Washington through the WSDA We Feed WA pilot program.