Our Vision

Food is at the center of human existence and well-being; and therefore, reflects our deep cultural roots, family practices, personal experiences and preferences, and the impact of sociology, psychology, health, politics, ethics and economic conditions in our individual and collective lives. The New London County Food Policy Council will work to ensure that affordable and nutritious food will be available to all people. 

In working to improve the health and wellness, food security, and quality of life for those who live in New London County, the NLC-FPC will:

• Connect with and work to influence and transform the food system; increase and enhance food security and safety in New London County
• Develop a local capacity to develop, study, and promote mission-critical policy in all of its dimensions:  local, regional, state, national, and international; and
• Become an active participant, as appropriate, in larger councils and efforts which have aligned missions.

Our Mission

The food system is complex, multidimensional, and integrated. It includes growing food and raising animals, and ends with human food consumption and the use of vegetable and animal waste to replenish the system cycle.  The NLC-FPC will raise the community awareness of all aspects of the food system. 

The mission of the NLC-FCP seeks to bring farms, organizations, organized labor, consumers, businesses, and New London County communities together to enhance the environment, improve economic conditions, and enhance the physical and social health of the region.  

Food Policy Councils Have Six Functions:

1. To serve as forums for discussing and advancing food issues
2. To advance scientific investigation and research which can support
behavioral and nutritional change leading to new knowledge and improved health for people
3. To foster coordination between sectors in the food system
4. To evaluate, advance, prepare and/or influence policy
5. To launch or support programs and services that address needs, advance knowledge and promote integration of the food system leading to positive results
6. To promote the healthy food, health, and well-being movement which honors and influences every part of the food system

The United Way and VISTA want YOU!

AmeriCorps VISTA members will be involved in a variety of activities designed to strengthen and support the New London County Food Policy Council in southeastern Connecticut, including the following:

• Research data to improve the current emergency and supplemental food system. 
• Build upon foundation laid by first year VISTAs in supporting the Food Policy Council by organizing its strategy and outcomes. 
• Support grant work to address and end child hunger by end of 2014.
• Implement education and training efforts to inform stakeholders and consumers. 
• Improve access for low income households to healthy and nutritious foods.
• Map the existing food system including access, distribution, transportation, sites and gaps. 
• Identify opportunities and techniques for nutrition/ education/ intervention. 
• Participate in best practices survey and literature review.

Apply ASAP and be prepared to commit to a year of service beginning 7/9/12 through 7/12/13.

Requirements:

• College degree or equivalent life experience 
• Background check
• Some travel
• No other full-time work or school commitment
• Excellent oral and written communication skills expected
• Experience in working across multiple cultures and constituencies
• Strong technology skills
• Reliable transportation

VISTA is a national volunteer service organization.

You MUST apply online at: the VISTA Web Site
Project: United Way of Southeastern Connecticut Food Policy Council.

UWSECT is an EOE committed to diversity in the workplace.

David L. Katz, M.D. on "Reversing the Obesity Trend"

On Thursday, 1/20/2012 Dr. David L. Katz, a nationally known nutrition expert spoke to a group of community leaders, social service agencies and healthcare professionals in Norwich, CT. This event was sponsored by the New London County Health Collaborative, Children First of Southeastern Connecticut, and the New London County Food Policy Council.  During his talk titled "Feet, Forks and Fingers can change our fate" Dr. Katz pointed out that "Obesity is our greatest health concern in this country and most out of control."  He brought an eye-opening awareness to the heath issues that plague our nation, and also offered a variety of solutions that could help reduce heart attacks by 80%, diabetes by 90% and cancer by 60%. 

Here is a short excerpt from his talk - with our special thanks to Backus Hospital for providing us with the video!