Our Impact
Pictured Above: coalfield development's refresh appalachia workforce programWorkforce Development
We believe that the food sector offers rich opportunities for individuals to build their skill sets and create pathways to a number of careers. That's why we are committed to supporting Appalachia through integrating hands-on training experiences and education for individuals that face barriers to entering the workforce. Our partners work in their communities to meet the needs of their local workforce in relation to our regional systems. We strive to build a resilient regional economy by strengthening communities and uplifting individuals.
Pictured Above: farm to school program at new roots community farm in fayetteville, wvFarm to School
We envision an Appalachia where all kids have access to healthy, local foods that build strong minds and bodies. We engage children throughout the region in farm-to-school activities through agriculture education, food tastings, special events, and by providing fresh local foods for their cafeteria menus. We see farm-to-school initiatives as a win-win for students and our producers.
*Data Pulled From 2022-2023
Pictured Above: rural action's produce prescription program at a local hospitalFood Access
Without fundamental access to food, it is impossible to catalyze regional growth. Every year we see a widening gap between those who can access healthy food and those who cannot. Many of our rural communities are classified by the USDA as food deserts, where individuals have low access to fruits and vegetables either geographically or economically. We prioritize food access programs across Central Appalachia by partnering with food banks, distributing fresh food to local schools, and developing innovative solutions to meet the needs of our individual communities.
*Data Pulled From 2022-2023
Pictured Above: solar panels on top of coalfield development's West edge facilityEnvironmental Impact
We strive to build an environmentally, socially, and financially sustainable food system. While our current work promotes the power of local food, which naturally reduces the resources used in transportation, we acknowledge that there is still work to do that further supports environmental sustainability. We can create a more sustainable model by implementing climate-smart practices in our infrastructure, transportation, and logistics.
Climate-smart practices we aim to implement:
Enhance energy efficiency in our food hubs by implementing innovative energy reduction systems such as solar and geothermal.
Assess the feasibility of a fleet of electric vehicles to create a distribution system that uses fewer fossil fuels and generates fewer emissions.
Optimize distribution logistics to create efficient routes based on food hubs, pick-up, and drop-off locations.
Promote sustainable agriculture practices and efficient production planning across the region.