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Pitkin County weighing short‑term funding to keep weekly CSA produce program for older adults after federal cut
Summary
Pitkin County staff asked the commissioners April 15 to consider a one‑year allocation from the Healthy Community Fund to sustain a weekly CSA produce distribution to older adults after federal LFPA funds were cut for 2025.
Pitkin County human‑services officials told commissioners April 15 that an annual federal Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) grant that funded a weekly CSA produce share program for older adults has been cut for 2025, leaving the program unfunded starting this growing season.
Program overview: For seven years the county contracted with local growers (notably 2 Roots Farm and other valley producers) to supply weekly CSA shares distributed at senior meals or senior‑center events. The program operates like a mini‑farmers market for older adults, allowing recipients to select the produce they want; staff said the distribution also boosts connection to other senior services. Participation has ranged from roughly mid‑30s to upper‑50s older adults weekly.
Immediate funding gap: Senior‑services and human‑services staff asked the board to consider a one‑time allocation from the Healthy Community Fund to bridge the 2025 growing season while the county pursues other funding options and explores long‑term alternatives. Board members discussed whether LiftUp, Harvest for Hunger, or other valley providers could scale to receive and distribute more local product, but staff said the current program’s value is that it directly supports local sustainable growers.
Board direction: Commissioners and Healthy Community staff signaled support for a short‑term allotment to prevent interruption to the weekly distribution while asking staff to convene a broader community discussion with LiftUp, Harvest for Hunger and other partners to consider whether a more economical or consolidated delivery model can be found for 2026 and beyond.
Budgetary note: Staff said the Healthy Community Fund has capacity for a one‑year bridge and recommended a range of $30,000–$50,000 as a contingency; commissioners asked staff to return with the precise supplemental appropriation language and to pursue partner conversations as soon as possible.
Ending: Officials said they will return with a formal budget supplement item if the board confirms the one‑time allocation; staff will also schedule a broader briefing with local food providers to evaluate long‑term options.
