IL-EATS program expands market opportunities for farmers

By Andi Anderson

Illinois farmers are experiencing new market growth thanks to the Illinois Equitable Access Towards Sustainable Systems (IL-EATS) program.

This grant initiative, supported by the Illinois Department of Agriculture and Illinois Department of Human Services, aims to enhance statewide food systems over two years with nearly $29 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Ed Dubrick, a farmer from Cissna Park, shared how IL-EATS has positively impacted his farm, DuChick Ranch. “IL-EATS has brought growth to our farm through increased sales and scale,” Dubrick said. The program allowed Dubrick and his wife, Lindsey, to focus on their farm and family, especially after welcoming their second child, without the need to sell at farmers markets.

Previously, farmers markets made up 67% of the farm’s yearly sales, but attending these markets from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. became overwhelming.

“To just walk away from that was terrifying,” Dubrick admitted. Entering the wholesale market as a new producer was also challenging due to higher production costs compared to vertically integrated counterparts.

Becoming part of IL-EATS relieved much of this pressure. Dubrick explained that the program removed barriers to wholesale market entry and allowed them to expand their 2,000-bird operation without relying on farmers markets. This year, the Dubricks expect to sell 4,000 chickens.

In March, they made their first delivery to the Eastern Illinois Food Bank, one of 15 lead agencies receiving IL-EATS grants. Overall, 20 grants were awarded to lead agencies across seven Illinois regions.

These funds are used to purchase local food at market value from socially disadvantaged farmers, which is then distributed to food-insecure communities at no cost.

Kristi Jones, deputy director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, highlighted the program’s role in increasing access to culturally responsive foods.

Lead agencies can use the University of Illinois Extension’s cultural food guide to cater to diverse food preferences within Illinois’ population.

Jones also emphasized how IL-EATS supports underserved farmers, including minorities, females, veterans, and new farmers, in developing sustainable operations.

“If you are getting fair market value, you may be able to invest in your farm or expand a smaller farm, … make your farm a business that is your main source of income,” she said.

For the Dubricks, IL-EATS has been a crucial step towards making their farm a primary income source. “We have more infrastructure in place, more experience with wholesale accounts and more knowledge about the needs of our neighbors,” Ed Dubrick said.

Through IL-EATS, farmers like the Dubricks are finding new opportunities and growth in the local food market, contributing to a more sustainable and equitable food system in Illinois.

Photo Credit: illinois-department-of-agriculture