Raley’s Readies for Urban Farm in West Sacramento
Raley’s Family of Fine Stores and the Center for Land-Based Learning have seeded the development of a Food for Families urban farm in West Sacramento. The unique partnership offers new pathways to increase access to fresh local produce, promote community sustainability, encourage volunteerism and stimulate educational opportunities; 25 percent of the produce will benefit Food For Families and create a built-in market for beginning farmers to sell their crops.
"For individuals facing food insecurity, access to fresh, healthy food can be a daily challenge,” said Jennie Teal-Wolter, Food For Families development officer. “Partnering with the Center For Land-Based Learning to grow fruits and vegetables for our partner food banks is another important and innovative way that Food For Families is working to bring nutritious produce to those who need it most."
Officials from the regional retailer said the new urban farm speaks to Raley’s vision of infusing life with health and happiness.
"At Raley's, we are proud to partner with the Center for Land-Based Learning,” said Meg Burritt, Raley’s director of wellness and sustainability. “By training young farmers, this organization is helping to create a more sustainable food system - not only for today, but also for the future. We are happy to help them work towards this mutual goal."
The project also supports Land-Based Learning’s mission to inspire and motivate people of all ages, especially youth, to promote a healthy interplay between agriculture, nature and society through their own actions and as leaders in their communities.
“Partnerships are an essential foundation for building successful and sustainable programs in our community,” said Mary Kimball, executive director of Land-Based Learning. “A partnership with the Raley’s Food For Families program is an excellent example of how we will be able to accomplish more by working together. In this case, supporting beginning farmers, while at the same time providing fresh food for families in need.”
The new urban farm is located at Yolo High School, in partnership with the Washington Unified School District.
"This is a great educational opportunity, not only for our students and district but the community as well,” said Alicia Cruz, Washington Unified School District trustee. “The partnerships that are being created with the West Sacramento Schools to provide educational pathways, fresh produce and opportunities for the community to get involved are nothing less than spectacular.”
With headquarters in West Sacramento, the privately-owned, family-operated Raley's operates 127 stores in northern California and Nevada under four banners: Raley’s Supermarkets, Bel Air Markets, Nob Hill Foods and Food Source.