We drive innovation, community leadership and applied research to strengthen West Virginia’s food system. Our work centers around two key focus areas: farm-to-institution and food is medicine. Our work takes shape through cross-sectoral collaboration, researching community food systems, quarterly calls and online discussion groups. Building relationships while strengthening knowledge around specific topics, our work is grounded in community-based action research that informs policy, improves programs and drives innovation in the food system.
Anchors in Action
Farm to Institution Programs
We connect local farms with institutions like schools, hospitals, colleges and universities to build resilient food systems that support local economies and enhance public health. By facilitating agriculture workforce training and strengthening institutional procurement, we increase the demand for local food, support small farms and advance food system change across West Virginia to build equitable food economies.
Food is Medicine Programs
We integrate local agriculture into healthcare settings, promoting nutrition security, chronic disease prevention and community resilience. Our food is medicine work supports healthcare providers and systems in delivering nutrition-based interventions while strengthening regional food systems and workforce pipelines.
Community Food Systems
We strengthen community food systems by investing in rural communities and farmers through initiatives like workforce development, dairy revitalization, veteran and coalfield producer outreach, and regional economic development.