#USA #Phylinda Moore #Moon Valley Farm #Food for Health #Woodsboro

Local Artist Partners with Organic Farm to Enhance Food Accessibility

In a proactive response to impending federal funding cuts threatening food access for vulnerable families, local artist Phylinda Moore has made a significant commitment that aligns art with community welfare. Moore plans to donate 50% of the proceeds from her upcoming exhibition titled Harmonious Duality Featuring Two Boots Farm to support the Food for Health initiative—an innovative food security program spearheaded by Moon Valley Farm, in collaboration with local educators.

Launched in November 2024, the Food for Health initiative aims to bridge the gap for families dealing with food insecurity. With funds raised from Moore’s art show, the program will benefit the Judy Centers of Frederick County, extending a pilot program initially established at Butterfly Ridge Elementary School by FCPS Program Administrator Tara Plowman. The program provides monthly boxes of fresh, locally sourced produce from Moon Valley Farm to families with elementary-aged children who are facing food insecurity. These boxes not only include an array of fresh fruits and vegetables but also come with SNAP-accessible recipes and nutritional guidance to help families create healthy meals at home.

So far, the program has successfully distributed 350 CSA-style produce boxes to families at Butterfly Ridge and Monocacy Elementary Schools. By making nutritious food more accessible, the Food for Health initiative aims to bolster children's health, support local agricultural systems, and empower families with essential cooking skills.

Emma Jagoz, a farmer and program partner at Moon Valley Farm, passionately urges community members to step up amidst federal funding challenges that complicate access to high-quality food for working families. As she states, “Phylinda’s art not only reflects the beauty of our regional farms—it also plays a crucial role in keeping those farms connected to the people who need them most.”

The public is invited to experience and purchase Moore’s work both online and in person at The Sandbox Brewhouse, conveniently located at 880 N East St, Frederick, MD 21701. To raise further awareness, two community tasting events named Farmer's Choice and Brewer's Choice are set to take place on Thursday, July 31 and Thursday, September 18, respectively. These events will showcase seasonal harvests from Moon Valley Farm alongside craft beverages from The Sandbox Brewhouse.

The call for community action is strong. Local businesses, individuals, and philanthropic organizations are encouraged to match Moore’s donation or contribute directly to this cause. Tax-deductible donations can be made through Moon Valley Farm to the Judy Centers of Frederick County to assist in enhancing the quality of food access for these families.

For further information or to make contributions, interested parties can reach out via email at [email protected].

By combining the power of art with a compassionate mission, Phylinda Moore and Moon Valley Farm are setting a precedent in the fight against food insecurity, paving the way for a healthier community and stronger local farms. Their collaborative efforts embody a genuine commitment to nurturing both the bodies and spirits of those in need.