Farms for Food Equity is a nonprofit dedicated to building a just, sustainable food system by supporting farm viability and fighting hunger. We buy surplus produce from local farms and deliver it to hunger relief organizations, getting fresh, local food to those who need it most.
Our Mission
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Guided by the principle that food is a basic human right, Farms for Food Equity (FFE) has established a network of Maine farms that utilize an existing distribution infrastructure to provide hyper-local, nutritious, desirable, food to pantries and food assistance sites. FFE is currently working with 14 Maine farms, and four distribution partners.
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Farmers experience food loss and inefficiencies for many reasons. Most notably, a lack of reliable market can prevent them from adequately investing in their business. Because Farms for Food Equity purchases these at-risk products (overruns, imperfects, etc), farmers have greater market confidence, better income predictability and are able to invest in their workforce. It’s a solution that strengthens our communities and builds resilience in our local food system.
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Maine farms produce a diverse and abundant harvest each growing season, including some produce that may not meet retail standards due to cosmetic imperfections. However, these "off-grade" vegetables—like a crooked carrot, a pudgy cucumber, or curly green beans—are just as fresh, delicious, and nutritious. Farms for Food Equity purchases these farm-fresh and distributes them to food pantries and other food assistance programs, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most.
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Food loss (a.k.a. food waste), is a challenge faced by most farms, with more than 30% of crops often left unharvested. This waste occurs for various reasons, including a lack of market demand, labor shortages, surplus plantings, or the need to transition to a new crop. Farms for Food Equity helps address this issue by purchasing excess produce either for distribution to pantries or for light processing which can preserve the products and ensure a steady supply of nutritious food to pantries throughout the off-season.
From Our Founder
Penny Jordan, Founder
“Always seeking ways to change the world or my little part of it”
I’m Penny Jordan, founder of Farms for Food Equity, and I’ve believed since childhood that farming is about more than just running a business—it’s about feeding all people. As a farm owner, I understand the challenge of balancing the demands of the growing season with the desire to support food pantries, food banks, and soup kitchens. It’s not about unwillingness—it’s about resources and the need for a system that supports both the farm’s viability and community needs. That’s why I created Farms for Food Equity: to build a win-win model where farmers can thrive while helping address food insecurity. With deep roots in Maine’s agricultural community and years of experience on both sides—growing food and distributing it to those in need—I’m committed to ensuring that healthy, local food reaches everyone, and that our farms remain strong and sustainable.
SUPPORT & DONATE
The best way to make an immediate impact?
Your gift helps us purchase food from local farms and deliver it where it’s needed most.
Help us build a food system that works for everyone—one that supports local farms and ensures fresh, healthy food reaches families in need.
EVENTS
Join Us at Winslow Farm!
Saturday, July 25 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM
Winslow Farm Stand | 291 Gray Rd. Falmouth, ME
As part of our Fund a Farm campaign, Winslow Farm is teaming up with Farms for Food Equity for a community event at their Farm Stand in Falmouth, ME!
Last year, thanks to the generosity of our community, Farms for Food Equity purchased $9,440 worth of surplus produce from Winslow Farm—helping rescue and distribute nearly 9,000 pounds of fresh, locally grown food to Maine neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
This year, we're hoping to make an even bigger impact. Every donation helps Farms for Food Equity purchase surplus produce directly from Winslow Farm, providing reliable income for our farm while ensuring fresh, nutritious food reaches local families who need it most.
It's a simple idea with a powerful impact: support local agriculture while helping feed our communities.
Can’t join us in person?
You can still make an impact by donating today. Every dollar helps us purchase more produce from Winslow Farm to feed neighbors in need.
Thank You For Your Support!
In 2025, Farms for Food Equity shared 176,000 pounds of fresh Maine-grown vegetables with communities across the state while expanding partnerships with local farms and supporters. It was a year of growth, resilience, and powerful community action. Read the full Year in Review to learn more about the impact you helped create.
Our Community Collaborations
Meet Our Farm, Distribution & Community Partners
Thank You To Our Funding Sponsors!
