In a county that produces over a billion dollars in farm products each year, how is it possible that 1 in 4 people and 1 in 3 children don't have enough food to eat? 

Weld County is an agricultural empire devoted to farming and raising livestock. It is among the wealthiest counties in the US. Yet, the Weld Food Bank reminds us that about 88,000 of our neighbors, including 26,000 kids, need more food. 

We live in a paradox of plenty and poverty, where the fruits of our labor don't reach those who need them most. How can we let hunger persist in such a rich land?

Growing up in Greeley, I've seen this contradiction play out in real life. My family often went to the Evans Community Center to fill a grocery cart only to bounce the $25 check on an empty bank account.  It's a humbling experience to have abundance as far as the eye can see yet still feel the sting of scarcity. That experience planted a passion for farming and a commitment to our community. One I pursued by running for office and starting Blooming Health Farms. 

Over the years, our community has noticed this paradox of plenty and poverty. A quiet revolution is underway in Greeley, led by chefs using local ingredients to create accessible, nutritious and appetizing cuisines. These chefs aren't just preparing meals—they're transforming lives.
 
They've embraced the idea that cooking with purpose means sourcing local ingredients and supporting our farmers. And, in turn, address the food insecurity that haunts so many of our neighbors.

But let's be honest—this isn't an easy road. These chefs face challenges in sourcing local food. It's not just about finding the ingredients; it's about ensuring they meet the standards required for food safety.
 
There is frustration in their voices. Voices like Chef Nash Martin at Peak Culinary Management, "There's great produce out there, but if it doesn't come with the proper certifications, I can't use it."

It's a bitter pill to swallow, knowing that the food that could help solve our hunger issues is partly out of reach because of red tape.

Yet, despite these challenges, there's hope. I've seen it in the eyes of chefs like Nash, who are determined to make a difference. Nash understands that every meal he serves can be a step toward a better local food system.

"We were able to start doing breakfast because I was able to get eggs from you. We weren't doing that before," Nash told me, reflecting on how a simple shift—one farm supplying one ingredient—opened up new possibilities. 
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“Southwest Breakfast Scramble made with local organic eggs by Peak Kitchen”
​A hearty Southwest scramble featuring local organic eggs, seasoned potatoes, sausage, and peppers, served with warm flour tortillas

This wasn't just a win for him, but for the community it serves. It's a testament that when local farms and restaurants work together, we fill stomachs and build a stronger community.

But this isn't just about the chefs and farmers. It's about all of us. Every decision we make—what we buy, where we eat—sends a message about the kind of community we want to be.

When you choose to support local chefs and farms, you're investing in the future of our city and getting the freshest food around. You're helping to build a sustainable local economy where food insecurity becomes a thing of the past.

Of course, the journey ahead isn't without its hurdles.

Food safety and seasonal availability are ongoing challenges. That's why an 'Ag Incubator' is being discussed, where farmers can get the support they need to meet standards. It's about building trust and connecting farm to table, benefiting everyone.

Imagine a Greeley where every meal you eat tells a story of community and connection. A place where the food on your plate not only nourishes your body but also strengthens the fabric of our society. This isn't just a dream—it's within our reach. But it requires all of us to play our part.

So, what kind of community do you want to live in? One where we continue to allow this paradox of plenty and poverty? Or one where we all work together to ensure no one goes hungry in a land of wealth and abundance?

The choice is ours. Let's make Greeley a place where everyone can sit down for a delicious and nutritious local meal.

​​As Chef Nash said, "If you don't support your local economy, you're not going to have a local economy left."