Real Food CT, the Newtown-based nonprofit strengthening regional food systems and expanding access to fresh, locally grown food, announced a major milestone in its work to expand food access across the state during a time of unprecedented need.

In 2025, Real Food CT donated more than 158,000 pounds of fresh, locally grown produce to food pantries and food access organizations, more than tripling the organization’s 2024 distribution of 50,000 pounds. This growth came at a moment when demand for healthy food has never been higher, as food pantries and community organizations across Connecticut face increasing need and reduced funding.

Real Food CT Executive Director Sean Fitzpatrick said food access partners “are serving more people with fewer resources.

“At the same time, farmers are under growing economic pressure. Our role is to bridge that gap: supporting farm viability while ensuring fresh, nutritious food reaches communities that need it most,” Fitzpatrick added.

Over the past year, Real Food CT partnered with more than 25 farms and market surplus partners and delivered food to 32 recipient organizations across the state. The organization also welcomed over 275 volunteers, whose support was critical to gleaning, harvesting, and distributing produce efficiently during a challenging year for food access systems.

In addition to its statewide gleaning efforts, Real Food CT operates two farm gardens in Newtown and is now booking corporate, faith-based, and community volunteer groups for hands-on volunteer days during the upcoming growing season. Volunteer groups play a vital role in planting and harvesting produce for donation to local pantries.

Organizations interested in scheduling a volunteer day should send an email to jessi@realfoodct.org for more information.

Seeking Board Members To Guide Strategic Growth

As demand continues to rise and funding remains uncertain, Real Food CT is entering a deliberate growth phase focused on infrastructure, long-term sustainability, and systems-level solutions that strengthen Connecticut’s food system. To support this work, the organization is actively seeking new members for its board of directors.

Board service with Real Food CT is an active governance role suited for individuals with experience in executive leadership, nonprofit or public-sector governance, financial strategy, large-scale project development, fundraising, or systems building. Board members provide fiduciary oversight, support strategic planning, serve on committees aligned with their expertise, and act as ambassadors for the organization.

“This moment requires thoughtful leadership and long-term vision,” Fitzpatrick added. “We’ve demonstrated impact. Now we’re focused on building durable systems that can serve farmers and communities for generations.”

Individuals interested in learning more about board service, or those wishing to refer qualified candidates, are encouraged to contact Fitzpatrick at sean@realfoodct.org.

Real Food CT is a Connecticut-based nonprofit strengthening regional food systems by connecting locally grown produce to food access partners, reducing on-farm waste, and expanding access to fresh, locally grown food for communities facing food insecurity. Through gleaning, farm operations, and collaborative partnerships, Real Food CT is working to build a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable food system for Connecticut.