Local First takes 10×10 pledge

Local First takes 10×10 pledge

The Grand Rapids-based nonprofit Local First promotes a “local living economy” in West Michigan. Photo via fb.com

Local First is calling on the people of West Michigan to take The 10×10 Pledge.

Local food economy

The campaign asks people to spend $10 a week on local food sources — for 10 weeks.

Local First is hoping the local food economy will see an injection of $200,000 this year, thanks to The 10×10 Pledge. 

That is double the amount from last year, when 1,000 people took the pledge and poured more than $100,000 into the Grand Rapids food economy.

The campaign, which is being presented this year by Twisted Rooster and Crooked Goose, runs through October, and people can join at any point.

“The 10×10 Pledge is important to take whether you are new to the local food movement or a pro at eating local,” said Elissa Hillary, executive director of Local First. “Having 2,000 people take the pledge helps us prove what we already know: that our West Michigan community is deeply connected to its farmers, brewers and producers and that we care about the relationships we make when we purchase food locally.”

Pledgers

Local First and the many sponsors of The 10×10 Pledge will provide support for pledgers, including information about how to get the best local food, deals, recipes and other tips.

Local First will also host free movie screenings that will be open to pledgers and the public.

Pledgers can mark their support of the campaign on Facebook and on Twitter, by using the campaign’s hashtag, #10x10Pledge.

Fork Fest

The 10×10 Pledgers will be celebrated at the third annual Fork Fest in the Greenhouse at Romence Gardens on Oct. 24.

Fork Fest is a harvest celebration, featuring more than 40 of the best local food and beverage producers.

Fork Fest is open to the public, with 450 people from West Michigan in attendance last year.