Pilot Farm to Community program provides neighbors with locally sourced fresh food
March 18, 2026
For many Delaware families, putting healthy food on the table isn’t always easy. Fresh produce, eggs, and dairy products—items most of us take for granted—can quickly become luxuries when budgets are tight and access is limited. Recognizing that, the Food Bank of Delaware is stepping up with a creative new solution: its Farm to Community program.
The initiative, now being piloted at seven pantry sites across all three counties, connects local farms directly with Delawareans in need. The pilot began with eggs and dairy, with plans to expand to fresh, seasonal produce, meat, poultry, seafood, and other locally made products.
Connecting Local Farms and Families
Zachary Kellerman, the Food Bank’s Supply Chain Director, said the program is designed to strengthen both Delaware’s food system and its communities.
“We have the ability to work with local farmers and producers to directly support their businesses and tie them straight to on-site pantries,” Kellerman said. “This eliminates processing and handling time.”
By shortening the path between farm and table, the program ensures that food reaches neighbors faster—and fresher—than ever before.
A Win-Win for Farmers and Neighbors
Even in its early stages, the Farm to Community program is already making an impact. Pantry leaders report that visitors are deeply grateful for the high-quality food and the personal connection to local sources.
Matthew Morrison, executive director of the Delaware Regional Dream Center in Newark, has seen the difference firsthand.
“Our Hunger Relief Program has seen an increase in volume, especially among first-time visitors, as we’ve started providing Hy-Point eggs, milk, and butter,” Morrison said. “Families have expressed deep gratitude for this wonderful food resource.”
In Dover, Erica M. Allen, executive director of the Do Care Doula Foundation, calls the program “amazing.”
“We utilize almost all of what is provided weekly. Some of our attendees have requested whole milk and cheese, but otherwise they’re thrilled to receive these items, which can become costly for those with limited incomes.”
Reaching Every Corner of the State
Downstate, Pastor Willeme Thomas manages the Church of the Nazarene pantry in Seaford, where the need is great and gratitude runs deep.
“We see a lot of people,” Thomas said. “Even though it’s cold and people are hungry, some don’t have cars. We’re out on the highway, and still, everyone is coming—and we don’t even advertise.”
When the pantry receives Farm to Community items, Thomas distributes them carefully based on family size.
“People are appreciative. The next day it’s gone,” he said. “This is very valuable for families with kids and for seniors. I hope to get some cereal donated. That would make this more than perfect.”
Looking Ahead
As the Farm to Community program grows, its promise is clear: stronger connections between farmers and families, more nutritious food on local tables, and a community that truly looks out for one another.
Through partnerships like these, the Food Bank of Delaware is doing more than providing meals—it’s building a healthier, more connected Delaware where everyone can share in the bounty of local farms.
