The Rowan County Food and Farm Network is dedicated to fostering a thriving local, sustainable food system by uniting both public and private stakeholders. With a mission centered on supporting and promoting such a system, their multifaceted approach encompasses several key objectives. Primarily, the network aims to educate Rowan County citizens about the importance of making healthy food choices, empowering individuals to make informed decisions for themselves and their families. Additionally, they provide invaluable networking opportunities, bringing together vendors, consumers, farmers, and community agencies to strengthen connections and facilitate collaboration. Central to their efforts is the development of strategies aimed at reducing food insecurity and enhancing food access throughout the county. By fostering a culture of sharing and collaboration, the network serves as a platform for Rowan County agencies to unite in addressing the specific needs of vulnerable populations, such as seniors and children, thereby creating a more equitable and resilient food landscape for all.

The Rowan County Food and Farm Network extends its services to a diverse range of individuals and groups within the community. Among those served are seniors, who may face unique challenges in accessing nutritious food options. Additionally, the network provides support to recipients of the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program and Medicaid minors, ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to essential dietary resources. Moreover, their outreach extends to North Rowan High School, where they contribute to the operation of a food pantry, offering vital assistance to students and families facing food insecurity. Through these targeted efforts, the network strives to address the varied needs of its community members, promoting health and well-being for all.

The Rowan County Food and Farm Network makes a significant impact by addressing food insecurity needs through a multifaceted approach. Utilizing grants and funding, they implement strategic initiatives aimed at tackling the root causes of food insecurity within the community. These efforts include supporting local food producers, facilitating access to fresh and nutritious foods, and advocating for policies that promote food justice and equity. Additionally, the network prioritizes education as a tool for empowerment, raising awareness among citizens of Rowan County about the realities of food insecurity and fostering a deeper understanding of its complexities. By combining grassroots activism with practical solutions, the Food and Farm Network plays a vital role in creating a more resilient and inclusive food system for all residents of Rowan County.

Refinement of the CHIP was done throughout 2022 and 2023. The Rowan Food and Farm Network and performance measure was added the the CHIP in 2024, therefore we have no progress to report in 2022 or 2023.

The Rowan Food and Farm Network continues to serve as an active collective of organizations working together to address food insecurity in Rowan County. This network brings together partners from public health, local farms, non-profits, and community organizations to collaborate on solutions that increase access to healthy, local food. By combining their efforts, the network works to secure grants and implement initiatives that support food access, such as providing farmers market vouchers to seniors and WIC participants. Through these collaborative efforts, the Rowan Food and Farm Network helps ensure that more residents, especially those most at risk for food insecurity, have the opportunity to access fresh, nutritious foods grown right here in Rowan County.