SEE-LA operates eight farmers' markets throughout Los Angeles, providing a platform for California farmers and local food producers to sell directly to consumers. The markets help support small-scale agriculture, reduce food miles traveled, and improve access to fresh, healthy food in underserved communities. It began with the creation of the Hollywood Farmers Market in 1991. Initially an economic revitalization effort, the market grew into the largest Certified Farmers Markets in Los Angeles.

SEE-LA has grown to eight farmers' markets with 200 participating vendors who retain $0.88-.92 on each dollar spent at the market (per the Farmers’ Market Coalition, US farmers make $0.174 for every dollar spent on food).

Our programs work synergistically to catalyze change. We offer programs in Nutrition Education, Urban Agriculture, Entrepreneur Education, and nutrition assistance benefits. We recognize that long-term change requires a nuanced understanding of the problems facing our food system. Our programs make this possible by supporting small-scale agriculture and food and beverage entrepreneurs and improving food security in underserved neighborhoods.

Our Seasoned Accelerator program has welcomed ten food and beverage businesses yearly since 2020, closing economic empowerment gaps by focusing on low to moderate-income entrepreneurs who might otherwise not be eligible for other acceleration programs. Earlier this year, we piloted the Seasoned Bootcamp with BIPOC female founders which serves as an early intervention for first-time food and beverage entrepreneurs, providing them with resources and foundational knowledge to establish their businesses.

We are active in local advocacy work through our participation in the LA Food Policy Council’s working groups including Urban Agriculture and the Good Food Economy working group which successfully worked with the Los Angeles City Council to pass the Good Food Zones pilot program. Additionally, we bring together both the private and public sectors to advocate for robust nutrition incentive funds that benefit SNAP and WIC participants.

All the work we do would not be possible if it wasn't for the support of our community and generous donations from people like you! The funding we receive enables SEE-LA to intensify outreach through innovative, multi-lingual marketing endeavors, elevating awareness of our programs in previously underserved areas. It enables us to broaden market accessibility, fortify educational resources, empower more entrepreneurs, and further develop our urban agriculture initiatives. With your support, we are better equipped to nurture healthier communities, enhance food security, and foster a more robust local food economy.

Thank you for giving and being a part of building a more just food system in Los Angeles!

Sincerely,

Your SEE-LA Staff

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