The Central Illinois Young Farmers Coalition is open to farmers of all ages, as well as chefs, farmer advocates, and aspiring farmers, who are leading the way to create a healthier, more hopeful food system. The group plans to organize social and learning events for its members and hopes to advocate for progressive food systems policy, as well as collaborate on processing and marketing projects.
Connect with us:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/396398914163736/
To join our chapter, learn how and fill out the form here: Membership Declaration Form.
The CIDER Fund
The CIDER Fund, short for Central Illinois Disaster and Emergency Relief Fund, was created by and for farmers in Central Illinois who are experiencing acute and unexpected crises on their farms or in their homes and are in need of quick relief. The CIDER Fund offers small cash payments to farmers with a fast turnaround when crisis strikes, such as disastrous weather events, fires, health emergencies, and more. These funds are meant to help our Central Illinois farmer community keep stable when things go wrong, with a minimal application, fast correspondence and disbursal, and no expectation or burdensome paperwork. Initiated by Cook Farm in collaboration with Central Illinois Young Farmers Coalition, the CIDER Fund has already distributed $2500 since December 2021 to victims of floods, fires, and personal health crises.
To apply for assistance from the CIDER Fund, learn how and fill out the form here: CIDER Fund Application Form.