Overview

A farm program in California, which has significantly benefited local farmers, is currently facing challenges that could jeopardize its future. Yadira Mendiola, who operates The Queen of Vegetables Organic Farm in Watsonville, shares her personal journey and the impact of the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) on her farming business.

Key details

  • Yadira Mendiola is a lifelong farmer and member of the Community Alliance with Family Farmers.
  • She transitioned from conventional agriculture to organic farming after participating in an educational program in 2019.
  • Mendiola's farm began with a half-acre lease in Salinas and has now expanded to 27 acres.
  • Her farm produces a variety of organic crops, including strawberries, lettuce, celery, onions, tomatoes, broccoli, carrots, and kale.
  • Organic farming is noted to be costly due to the labor-intensive methods required instead of using pesticides and fertilizers.
  • Mendiola's oldest son, a UC Santa Cruz graduate, was also involved in organic farming but tragically passed away in a car accident last year.
  • Her younger sons are now eager to continue the family farming legacy.
  • The LFPA program has been crucial for Mendiola's farm, providing a stable income and allowing her to take risks in crop production.
  • This program supports local producers and feeding programs like food banks by funding state and tribal purchases of locally-grown food.
  • More than 850 growers and food hubs across California have benefited from the LFPA program.
  • Many LFPA participants are people of color, immigrants, and women from communities facing poverty and health issues.
  • The program has enabled Mendiola to connect directly with a school district and hire more workers.

Context

The LFPA program is designed to uplift local agricultural producers while addressing food insecurity in communities across California. It plays a vital role in supporting farmers like Mendiola, who are dedicated to providing healthy food options.

What happens next

The future of the LFPA program remains uncertain, and its potential changes could significantly impact local farmers and the communities they serve.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific risks facing the LFPA program and any proposed changes or funding issues have not been confirmed.