VFN Welcome's Affiliate Partner Vermont First

We are pleased to announce that Vermont First has become a Vermont Fresh Network affiliate partner, pledging to support our work to strengthen the local food system through chef, farmer and food producer partnerships.

Led by VFN Board Secretary Annie Rowell, Vermont First has led innovation and change in institutional local purchasing. As part of Sodexo's Vermont First initiative, we welcome renewed Culinary members, University of Vermont, Champlain College, St. Micheal's College, and National Life and new member, Husky Injection Molding!

photo credit: Nate Stevens

Sodexo launched Vermont First, a first of its kind program committing Sodexo to increase local purchasing across its Vermont institutional markets. Through Vermont First, Sodexo aims to grow inclusive opportunities for local producers, build an environmentally sustainable food system, and support employee engagement in this work. Vermont First has been recognized as a best practice in farm to institution work for its transparent, rigorous tracking system and strategic alignment of institutional purchasing needs with local supply.  VFN is grateful for their partnership and support.