MISSION

PFPC mobilizes people through listening, educating, and advocating for policies and programs that shift power, expand access to resources, and strengthen the Greater Pittsburgh Food System.

WHO WE ARE

The Pittsburgh Food Policy Council (PFPC) was established to advocate for essential changes in the food system, uniting various organizations in 2009, including Penn State Extension, Just Harvest, Pennsylvania Association of Sustainable Agriculture (PASA), Grow Pittsburgh, and East End Food Co-op. The PFPC, initially formed as a volunteer advisory network, focused on fostering relationships, hosting events, and collaborating on projects. As part of its early initiatives, the PFPC successfully implemented policy changes such as introducing free breakfast for Pittsburgh Public School students and updating the Urban Agriculture Zoning Code of the City of Pittsburgh.

By 2022, the PFPC evolved into its independent 501c3 organization while maintaining ties with the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies (CFA) for administrative support. The PFPC's membership network, consisting of over 100 entities, actively participates in Working Groups/Committees and elects the Board.

Over the years, the PFPC played a pivotal role in passing the groundbreaking Pennsylvania Farm Bill in 2019 by collaborating with statewide partners, marking the first state farm bill in the nation. Subsequently, in 2020, the council finalized the Greater Pittsburgh Food Action Plan (GPFAP), engaging hundreds of residents and stakeholders to shape the region's food systems strategy. The plan's completion led to the identification of key priorities that continue to guide the PFPC's activities.

In 2021-2022, the PFPC made significant strides in advancing the GPFAP priorities, achieving milestones like the adoption of the Good Food Purchasing Policy by Pittsburgh Public Schools and the establishment of the county-wide low-income fair pilot program. Additionally, they were awarded the USDA Regional Food System Partnership Grant, a highly competitive grant, to enhance their food system initiatives.

Looking ahead to 2023-2024, the PFPC plans to implement the USDA grant, focusing on convening funders, providing grant writing support, forming strong partnerships, expanding the Good Food Purchasing model, and organizing their inaugural Food Summit in Spring 2024.