Farmland dominates the landscape surrounding the Blue Ridge Mountains, but, surprisingly, many of the people in this region lack access to healthy, fresh and local food. In the early 2000s, a group of women farmers, gardeners and agriculture supporters set out to change that — by banding together to create Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture.

The group provides a range of support for women growers and their families. Their programs include farm tours, seasonal educational workshops for producers and consumers and a variety of events and services that contribute to a strong regional food system. Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture also focuses on networking, mutual empowerment and information sharing for its majority female network.

Our Role

With a strong focus on helping grassroots organizations plan, manage and carry out community programming, our Resourceful Communities program provided Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture with small-grant support and capacity building focused on strategic planning, leadership succession, board development and resource cultivation. With our support, Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture implemented solutions for this “food desert” region, including the coordination of community gardens, launch of a regional food hub and expansion of community-supported agriculture programs.

Why This Project Matters

More than a quarter million women operate farms in the United States, yet they continue to be underserved. Our Resourceful Communities program provides support where it’s needed most, giving vulnerable populations access to resources and funding to advance successful programs. Beyond the social justice benefits, our triple-bottom-line approach also boosts local economies and protects environmental resources.

Learn More

• Blue Ridge Women In Agriculture