Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth and Good Food 🌱

As we close the chapter on 2024, it’s a time for reflection—a chance to look back on the challenges, triumphs, and lessons that defined the year. From strengthening partnerships with community partners, to strengthening local food initiatives, this year has brought meaningful growth to Maine’s local food system. Join us in looking back at the milestones we’ve achieved, the stories that inspired us, and the shared meals that reminded us of the power of good food to bring people together.

In September we hired a new coordinator, Stephanie! Stephanie is thrilled to be joining the GFCLA team. This position feels like a natural fit, given her passion for local food, community organizing, and public health. Before joining GFCLA, Stephanie worked at small-scale farms, community gardens, and farm-to-table restaurants. She earned a BS in Health Science from the University of Southern Maine. Outside of the office, Stephanie can often be found brewing a big mug of herbal tea, tending to the garden, cooking dinner for friends, playing with baby goats, or hiking and skiing in the mountains of western Maine. After three months of working with the council, Stephanie is feeling grounded in the work and excited to keep the momentum of the GFCLA moving forward.

In October 2024, the Good Food Council of Lewiston Auburn partnered with St. Mary’s Nutrition Center to host a lively Harvest Fest. With a hand-cranked apple press and freshly gleaned apples from Boothby’s Orchard, harvested by the Androscoggin Gleaners, attendees had the chance to learn the art of cider-making, enjoy a delicious Somalian inspired meal, and learn about the community gardens. Guests took turns cranking the press, tasting the fresh, sweet juice, and enjoying the festive spirit. It was a joyful gathering, bringing the community together to celebrate the changing season and the abundance of autumn.

Also in October, the LA Metro Chamber of Commerce hosted the third annual Taste the Harvest event, a vibrant street festival celebrating our local food economy from farm to table. Featuring ingredients sourced from local farms and food producers, the festival showcased the best flavors of the season while supporting and promoting the region’s agricultural and culinary community. As one of the action leads for the Local Foods Action Plan LA, the Chamber continues to play a key role in strengthening our local food systems and bringing the community together through events like this.

This year marked the launch of the updated Local Foods Action Plan for Lewiston Auburn (LFAP LA), Maine—a community-driven, collaboratively led roadmap designed to strengthen and define our region’s unique local food system and economy. With four overarching goals and 15 actionable strategies led by the community, the plan provides a clear vision for progress. The updated version is now hosted on an interactive website, making it easier than ever to track updates and keep the plan vibrant and evolving in the years ahead.

Thank you all for a wonderful year!