What’s Next for the Food Council
The Food Council is working to sponsor commercial kitchens across the region, giving farmers, artisans, food truck owners, caterers, and other food entrepreneurs access to safe, licensed spaces to prepare food for our communities.

Illinois food safety laws require that food sold to the public be prepared in a certified commercial kitchen that is routinely inspected by the local health department. By expanding access to these kitchens, we can grow the variety of foods available within our local value chain.

With this support, farmers can preserve their harvests and ensure that fresh, local foods are available year-round.

Fundraising is underway to establish a regional anchor kitchen—a large-scale facility designed for batch processing and value-added food production that will strengthen the local food economy. Alongside this hub, three smaller community kitchens will be outfitted with essential equipment and offered for rent at a low cost, making it easier for farmers, food entrepreneurs, and neighbors to prepare and share local food.

From Harvest to Home – Support the spaces that bring local food to the table. Residents can get involved in many meaningful ways:

Monthly Pledge ($30, $50, or $100): Join the movement by setting up 12 monthly contributions to strengthen our local food system year-round.

Family Brick ($2,500): Leave a lasting legacy with your name engraved on a commemorative brick in the sidewalk at our main kitchen.

These one time options are a great fit for company contributions.