MID ATLANTIC FOOD RESILIENCE AND ACCESS COALITION INC
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Mission Statement
P - E - R - C PREPARE and build a stakeholder group that is able to cohesively respond to future food and logistics emergencies through established processes and procedures. EMPOWER local community members to direct MAFRAC local food microgrants where they will have the most impact and to make vital food systems change decisions to improve health and economies through MAFRAC’s diverse programs. RESOURCE by raising, directing, or distributing philanthropic funds to vetted, front-line community-led nonprofits and farm businesses that serve communities in-need for the purpose of purchasing local, nutritious, high-quality foods, which in-turn support local, sustainable and diverse farms. CONNECTIONS are made with local food councils, government agencies, educational institutions and similar groups that deal with health, agriculture, and crisis response across the MidAtlantic region. These interregional collaborations will ensure the health, resiliency and responsiveness of our food system.
About This Cause
The Mid-Atlantic Food Resilience and Access Coalition (MAFRAC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the regional food system by increasing equitable access to nutritious food, supporting local farmers and producers, and building the capacity of community-based organizations. Since its inception in 2020, MAFRAC has worked collaboratively with hunger relief organizations, small farms, health-focused nonprofits, and community leaders to create sustainable solutions for food insecurity. As a 501(c)(3) organization, MAFRAC has successfully managed multiple large-scale food distribution initiatives, interregional collaborations, and funding opportunities that enhance food access and resilience. Its expertise in logistics, food procurement, and program implementation makes MAFRAC well-positioned to administer and execute the Fueling Healthy Futures program. Experience & Capacity 1. Program Management & Implementation o MAFRAC has successfully managed multi-year food security programs, including capacity-building initiatives for grassroots organizations. o The organization has extensive experience coordinating food distribution logistics, ensuring that fresh, local, and culturally relevant foods reach underserved populations efficiently. o Through its Prepare, Empower, Resource, and Connect (P-E-R-C) framework, MAFRAC strengthens the regional food pipeline by fostering partnerships and supporting local food businesses. 2. Collaboration with Local Farmers & Producers o MAFRAC has established long-term partnerships with local BIPOC farmers, producers, and food hubs to ensure sustainable sourcing for hunger relief efforts. o Its work in bridging the gap between small-scale farmers and food assistance programs has led to increased income opportunities for farmers while providing healthy food to communities in need. 3. Infrastructure & Resource Mobilization o MAFRAC has a proven track record of securing grant funding, government contracts, and philanthropic investments to support food access programs. o The organization operates a regional food distribution network, leveraging community partnerships and cold storage infrastructure to ensure food reaches vulnerable populations efficiently. o MAFRAC is currently working on the MAFRAC Refrigerator Truck initiative, which will further enhance its ability to transport fresh food to underserved areas. 4. Health & Nutrition Integration o MAFRAC has collaborated with healthcare providers, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), and community-based health initiatives to integrate nutrition education with medical care. o The organization is actively engaged in a Diabetes Management Program, incorporating food as medicine approaches to address diet-related health conditions. o Through educational workshops and cooking demonstrations, MAFRAC equips individuals with the knowledge to make healthier food choices. 5. Community-Centered Approach o MAFRAC prioritizes listening sessions and needs assessments with grassroots organizations, ensuring that its programs are community-driven and responsive to local challenges. o The organization employs Strategic Community Coordinators to engage directly with partner organizations and residents, fostering trust and sustained impact. Alignment with the Fueling Healthy Futures Program The Fueling Healthy Futures program is an extension of MAFRAC’s core mission and expertise, leveraging its strengths in: • Food procurement and equitable distribution through partnerships with small farmers and food hubs. • Capacity building for smaller nonprofits, providing them with the tools, training, and resources to scale their impact. • Integration of nutrition and healthcare, ensuring that food access initiatives align with broader health equity efforts. With its established infrastructure, deep community connections, and commitment to food justice, MAFRAC is uniquely positioned to lead the Fueling Healthy Futures program and drive long-term solutions for food insecurity in the Mid-Atlantic region. • Sustainability plan: To ensure sustainability beyond the grant year, MAFRAC will implement several strategies. These include diversifying funding through ongoing grant applications, corporate sponsorships, partnerships, and individual donations. We will also develop fee-for-service programs such as workshops, training, and consulting on food security and sustainability. Community-based fundraising efforts, including food festivals and local partnerships, will support the program's financial stability. Long-term collaborations with partners like 4P Foods, PAT Acres, Withletree Farm, Ruckers Farm Inc., and Culpeper & Fauquier Free Clinic will help pool resources and funding. Additionally, we will track outcomes to demonstrate the program's impact and continue engaging stakeholders with impact reports. These efforts will ensure MAFRAC's continued success and expansion. To ensure the sustainability of this project beyond the grant year, MAFRAC has developed a multi-faceted approach to securing future financial support. The key strategies include: 1. Diversified Funding Sources • Ongoing Grant Applications: MAFRAC will continue to apply for both federal and private foundation grants that align with the mission of food security, health, and community resilience. This includes local, state, and national funding opportunities. • Corporate Sponsorships & Partnerships: We will seek new corporate sponsorships and expand partnerships with businesses in the food and health sectors. This may include local grocery stores, restaurants, and larger food distributors, as well as companies interested in supporting sustainability and community health. • Individual Donations & Crowdfunding: Building a strong donor base and engaging in online crowdfunding campaigns will ensure that smaller, community-based contributions continue to flow. We will leverage social media and community outreach to encourage regular donations and pledges. 2. Fee-for-Service Model • Workshops and Training: MAFRAC will develop fee-for-service programs such as educational workshops on nutrition, cooking classes, and farm-to-table initiatives. These can be offered to schools, community organizations, and corporate groups, with fees contributing to project funding. • Consulting and Advisory Services: As MAFRAC builds expertise in local food systems and sustainability, we will offer consulting services to other organizations and businesses looking to improve their food security and sustainability practices. 3. Community-Based Fundraising • Fundraising Events: We will organize community events such as food festivals, farmer’s markets, and educational events, where a portion of the proceeds will support program sustainability. These events will also raise awareness about our mission and attract potential long-term supporters. • Local Partnerships & Sponsorships: Engaging local businesses and organizations in mutually beneficial partnerships will help sustain financial resources. Local sponsorships for program components (e.g., food donations, event sponsorships) will ensure continued support. 4. Strengthening Partnerships • Long-Term Collaborations: We will work to deepen our existing relationships with partners like 4P Foods, PAT Acres, Withletree Farm, Ruckers Farm Inc., and Culpeper & Fauquier Free Clinic. By fostering long-term collaborations, we can share resources, pool funding, and ensure mutual support for each other’s sustainability goals. • Shared Funding Pools: We will explore opportunities to create shared funding pools with partners to continue growing the project collectively, increasing its impact and sustainability.