The Illinois Equitable Access Towards Sustainable Systems (IL-EATS) program is offering new market growth opportunities for Illinois farmers, boosting statewide food systems with nearly $29 million in grant funding. Established by the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) and Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), and funded by a grant from the USDA, IL-EATS aims to distribute free, locally produced food across Illinois over a two-year period.
For farmers like Ed Dubrick of DuChick Ranch in Cissna Park, the IL-EATS program has been transformative. Dubrick and his wife, Lindsey, had to make the tough decision to stop selling at farmers' markets this year due to the demands of raising their two children, Evelyn and Calvin. Farmers markets previously accounted for 67% of their yearly sales.
"To just walk away from that was terrifying," Ed said. "Our costs of production are often higher than our vertically integrated counterparts who dominate the food system."
IL-EATS has been a source of relief for the Dubricks, eliminating the pressure of relying on farmers' markets. This has allowed them to expand their 2,000-bird operation, with the expectation to sell 4,000 chickens this year. Their first delivery was made to the Eastern Illinois Food Bank in March, one of the 15 lead agencies receiving a grant from IL-EATS.
The program's structure involves 20 grants distributed to lead agencies across seven Illinois regions. These agencies, including food banks, farm cooperatives, and nonprofits, were selected through a competitive and transparent process. They use the funds to purchase local food at market value from socially disadvantaged farmers. The food is then distributed to food-insecure communities at no cost.
Kristi Jones, IDOA deputy director, highlighted that IL-EATS also increases access to culturally responsive foods, addressing diverse food preferences within Illinois communities. Lead agencies can utilize the University of Illinois Extension's comprehensive cultural food guide, which includes recipes, nutritional information, and cooking tips for a variety of cuisines, to ensure a wide range of food choices.
"IL-EATS can help develop a long-term, sustainable operation for underserved and socially disadvantaged farmers," Jones said. "If you are getting fair market value, you may be able to invest in your farm or expand a smaller farm, making your farm a business that is your main source of income." This support is crucial for the growth and sustainability of these farms.
For the Dubricks, IL-EATS has been a significant step towards their goal of making farming their primary livelihood. "IL-EATS has brought growth to our farm through increased sales and scale," Ed said. "We have more infrastructure in place, more experience with wholesale accounts, and more knowledge about the needs of our neighbors." This positive impact gives hope for the future of their farm.
Through programs like IL-EATS, Illinois farmers are not only finding new market opportunities but are also building more sustainable and resilient farming operations, benefiting both their businesses and their communities.