At Sustainable Food Center, we collaborate with a network of advocacy groups to address targeted issues that impact food access advocacy and Texas farming campaigns. We are a leader in identifying and advocating for policy that increases food access and provides fair risk-sharing to small-scale farmers.
Food Access Advocacy is Stronger Together
Make your voice heard on Texas food access and farming. SFC promotes advocacy to city, county, state, and federal representatives to address pressing issues that impact the availability of locally produced, nutritious food. But we can’t do it alone. We invite you to champion policies that support local farmers and ensure food security for all Texans. Visit this page and sign up for our newsletter to stay informed on issues that we and our partners share.
State governments play a crucial role in regulating food produced and sold within state lines. Government programs are particularly important to regional food systems. SFC is dedicated to strengthening Federal food policies, which are shaped by multiple departments and agencies and touch nearly every aspect of the food system, from land use to food safety to nutrition assistance and education.
Through food access advocacy and Texas farming campaigns, SFC, along with our partners and the statewide Double Up Food Bucks Texas network, advocates for state investments in SNAP incentives to increase food access, boost farmers’ income, and strengthen local economies. Innovative local policies can have immediate effects and serve as models for state and federal legislation. Together, we push for policies that build a more equitable and sustainable food system.
Strengthening Food Systems Through Collaborative Advocacy
Federal Partners
We are an active member of the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, which works to reform federal policy. Our current Texas farming campaigns at this level focus on advocating for policies that support regenerative farming practices, increased funding for nutrition assistance programs, and protections for small-scale farmers.
State Partners
We collaborate with aligned organizations and coalitions like the American Heart Association, Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance, and the Partnership for a Healthy Texas, to advocate for state support benefiting farmers and communities. Current state-level food access advocacy includes increased state investment in SNAP incentives, support for Double Up Food Bucks Texas, and promotion of farm to school programs.
Local Partners
We work closely with the Austin-Travis County Food Policy Board and its working groups to improve the availability of safe, nutritious, locally, and sustainably grown food at reasonable prices for all Austin and Travis County residents, particularly those in need. Our local campaigns aim to advocate for local food purchasing policies in schools and support urban agriculture initiatives.
Find Your Cause
Make your voice heard and drive change with these impactful steps:
1. Find Your Representative:
Start by finding out who represents you in the government. Knowing your local, state, and federal representatives is the first step to effective advocacy.
2. Introduce Yourself Clearly:
State your name, where you live, and the specific issue you’re addressing. Personalizing your message adds credibility and urgency.
3. Focus on Current Issues:
Representatives are most responsive to legislation that is about to be voted on.
4. Keep Long-Term Issues in Sight:
Ensure long-term concerns remain a priority. Remind legislators to consider these issues in future legislation and ongoing discussions.
5. Communicate Effectively:
Send your message via email or phone and always request a response. Consistent follow-ups can reinforce your commitment and ensure your message is heard.
Resources
2024 Recent Report
Farms of all types, stripes, and sizes are susceptible to a deluge of risks that put their viability in jeopardy every day. These risks are often out of the...
Why Is SFC Transforming The Food System?
Sustainable Food Center (SFC) is dedicated to creating a just and inclusive food system because the industrial food system limits access to fresh, local food...
The Happy Kitchen / La Cocina Alegre’s Frittata
We’re excited to share our delicious and nutritious Frittata recipe from The Happy Kitchen/La Cocina Alegre®! This versatile dish allows you to incorporat...