California

California AgrAbility staff attended the Fifth Annual Latino Farmer Conference at the International Agri-Center in Tulare. Staff spoke to about 70 farmers and several agency representatives. The keynote speaker was Honduran farmer Jorge Inestroza from Tenalu Ranch. He discussed the importance of the Latino Farmer Conference as a space to learn about resources available to protect and thrive in farming Californian soils. Other agencies present were the National Young Farmers Coalition, California Farmer Justice Collaborative, Farm Bureau, Farm Service Agency, Farm Link, CDFA, the UC Davis Small Farms Program, and MESA, among others.

Staff presented at the Native American Training & Technical Assistance Conference in Oroville. Staff explained the goals of AgrAbility as well as resources and assistive devices available for those in agriculture. The audience was highly receptive as staff demonstrated some tools. The director of NATTA is currently writing a grant to obtain funds to create a community garden for those living with a disability. The hope is to bring fresh fruits and vegetables to the rural areas of the Native American population while employing those living with a disability.

California AgrAbility staff shared a booth with Santa Rosa's Department of Rehabilitation at the Latinos Unidos Farmworker Health Fair in Geyserville, which was recently impacted by the Kincade Fire. Many farmers and farmworkers in the area were affected. Event organizers launched a "sponsor a farmworker family for the holidays" initiative. The intent is to support farm families so that they can have a hopeful holiday season and meal while creating community. The event also served as a space for agencies to learn about other services in the county to cross-refer.

Submitted by Sara Wat