Farm Fund
Support Flood Recovery
Community Food Co-op maintains its Farm Fund as a financial resource for the local farming community. It is funded through a portion of the Co-op’s annual budget, as well as by donations from members and shoppers. Due to the recent flooding events, we are redirecting all money to support the cleanup and rebuilding efforts of local farms.
Donate to Farm Fund
All donations will directly support Farm Fund’s flood relief efforts.
Looking for other ways to give? In partnership with the Co-op’s Farm Fund, Whatcom Community Foundation has established the Whatcom Food and Farm Fund. Gifts are tax deductible through their 501(c)(3). Donate here >
The Co-op’s Farm Fund has provided $878,699 to 164 local food and farming projects through grants, loans, scholarships, and emergency funds since 2000.
Farm Fund Grants
For questions or more information, contact the Farm Fund Administrator at [email protected] or 360-734-8158 ext. 317.
Flood Response Grant
Due to the recent major flooding event, we are directing Farm Fund grants to support the cleanup and rebuilding efforts of local farms. The Farm Fund grant cycle will distribute a limited number of grants up to $5,000 for projects that address emergency flood response, flood recovery, and related immediate farm needs.
Apply online using the link above or download the application materials here: Flood Response Grant Application
First Step Grant
Not granting in 2026. The First Grant program distributes a limited number of grants of up to approximately $3,000 for projects that address immediate and critical farm needs, flood recovery, and market expansion. Priority consideration is given to farmers who face systemic barriers.
Next Step Grant
Not granting in 2026. The Next Step Grant program is designed to support local farmers who want to expand their business to supply wholesale markets. Next Step accepts proposals for grants of $1,250 to $5,000. Priority is given to farmers who face systemic barriers.
Farm Fund Recipients
Get to know a few of our Farm Fund recipients over the years including, but not limited to, Viva Farms, Ebb & Flow Herb Farm, and Brittle Barn Farms.
Farm Fund Committee
The Farm Fund is guided by a volunteer advisory committee of local farmers, food and farming advocates, and Co-op members:
- Margaret Gerard – Co-owner/Operator, Sunseed Farm; Community Food Co-op Board director
- Jessica Gillis – Food and Farming Program Manager, Sustainable Connections
- Erik Olsen – Owner, Well Fed Farm
- Jade Vantreese – Communications Manager, Non-GMO Project
- Hank Bertholf – Floral Department Head, Community Food Co-op
- Mike Finger – Owner, Cedarville Farm
- Madeline McGonagle – Food Access Manager, Skagit Food Distribution Center
- Mauricio Soto – Owner, Arado Farm
Our Community Partners
Thanks to these organizations for supporting the Farm Fund:
Other Ways We Support Our Community
Create Change for Neighbors in Need
Making Change at Checkout
Our PIN pad donation program took off in 2025, when shoppers raised $200,000 for Bellingham Food Bank in just seven months. Every penny you donate goes directly to the featured organization.
Champion Local Farmers
Farm Fund
Since 2000, the Co-op has donated over $878,699 to 164 local food and farming projects through grants, loans, scholarships, and emergency funds. These funds help increase the supply of local, sustainable, and organic food in Whatcom County and beyond.
Make Getting Groceries a Good Deed
Community Shopping Days
On the third Saturday of each month, 2% of sales go directly to a local organization doing vital work in our community. Your shopping helps support everything from environmental conservation to food access programs.
*Represents total raised in 2025.
Your choice to shop at Community Food Co-op brings tangible, positive change to our community.
Educate Kids About Healthy Eating
The Real Food Show
Combining circus arts, food education, laughter, and fun, The Real Food Show brings healthy eating lessons to life for students throughout Whatcom and Skagit counties. It is produced and funded by the Co-op and has toured since 2014.