Cape Cod Cooperative Extension: Growing & Feeding Our Community
Back in 2017, nearly 100 volunteers rolled up their sleeves at Cape Cod Organic Farm to harvest sweet potatoes for Cape Cod families. Led by Extension’s Nutrition Department, Buy Fresh Buy Local Program, and AmeriCorps Cape Cod, those farm-fresh spuds made their way to food pantries across the region to ensure local families had access to fresh, nutritious food.
Fast forward to today, and that mission hasn’t changed—it’s only grown.
Strengthening Cape Cod’s Food System with “Cape Land and Sea”
In October 2024, Cape Cod Cooperative Extension’s Food Access Program was awarded a $750,000 grant from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) to expand food access and support Cape Cod farmers, fishermen, and aquaculture operations. But what does that actually mean for our community?
Through the Cape Land and Sea: Strengthening Cape Cod’s Diverse Food System initiative—running from February 2024 through May 2025—96% of this funding will go directly back into Cape Cod’s food system, helping to:
Buy fresh, locally grown produce and seafood at fair market prices from Cape Cod farmers, fishermen, and aquaculture operations.
Distribute that food to local pantries and community organizations, ensuring it reaches families in need.
Prioritize partnerships with socially disadvantaged farmers to create a more equitable food system.
Build long-term, direct connections between local food producers and organizations that serve Cape Cod families.
In short? More local food on tables. More support for local farms. A stronger Cape Cod.
Government Funding at Work—Supporting Our Community
These programs aren’t just numbers on a budget—they’re real people making a real difference. They’re your neighbors, farmers, educators, and volunteers working together to keep Cape Cod’s food system strong, resilient, and community-driven. It’s about farmers growing fresh food, volunteers making sure it gets to families, and educators helping communities thrive. Extension is proud to be part of this effort, strengthening Cape Cod’s food system and ensuring everyone has access to fresh, local food.
For decades, Extension has been here—helping families put fresh food on the table, preparing communities for coastal challenges, and inspiring the next generation through 4-H. That work continues, stronger than ever.
Want to learn more about how Extension is supporting Cape Cod? Read about this project and more in Barnstable County’s FY24 Annual Report. Click here to access to the full report.
