Center for Regional Food Systems

In 2022, the Michigan Local Food Council Network launched the Advocacy Campaigning series of workshops as a lead-in to a more intensive learning experience, the Policy Advocacy Learning Cohort (PALC). The PALC was designed for local food councils (LFCs) who had identified an organizing issue to advocate for in their communities, were in the beginning stages of building a base to support an issue to be further refined by community participation, and/or were ready for advocacy campaign planning and implementation.  

 The PALC centered grassroots organizing as a strategy for LFCs to advance equitable food policy. Based on the Life Cycle of an Organizing Campaign, participating councils focused on base building and issue selection phases of campaign development. The Life Cycle of an Organizing Campaign, published by the Center for Urban and Regional Affairs at the University of Minnesota, is a tool for organizers and leaders to see the steps in pulling together a successful campaign. The PALC also provided an opportunity for the participating councils to apply for funding for their community engagement. 

About Kent County Food Policy Council  

Supporting Grand Rapids and the surrounding area, Kent County Food Policy Council (Kent County FPC) participated in the PALC. Formed in 2021, the Kent County FPC brings together residents, organizations, agencies, and businesses. Its members envision a thriving economy, equity and sustainability for Kent County residents through a food system rooted in local communities and centered on good food. According to the Michigan Good Food Charter, good food is defined as food that is accessible, equitable, fair, healthy, diverse, and sustainable. 

Learn more and get connected at kentfoodpolicy.org