Alchemist CDC

Description

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, we rely on the help of volunteers to connect communities to land, food and opportunity toward a vision in which all neighborhoods are vibrant, equitable, healthy, and diverse. We offer a range of volunteer opportunities across three different programs: CalFresh at Farmers' Markets, Neighborhood Empowerment, and Community Connections 95820.

CalFresh at Farmers' Markets: this program operates CalFresh processing at multiple farmers' markets throughout Sacramento County through . The CalFresh program offers qualifying lower income individuals financial assistance in purchasing food for themselves and their families. Farmers' markets are a great asset to communities, and can lead to improved health for area residents. By making it easier for lower-income populations to purchase food at farmers' markets, these community assets will become more equitable and accessible to all individuals. CalFresh at Farmers' Markets volunteers assist in processing SNAP transactions, distribute EBT and Market Match vouchers, and assist in redemption of vouchers from farmers' market vendors.

Neighborhood Empowerment: We believe that communities have within themselves the vision, passions, and ability to do good and great things. We also recognize that many great ideas can be held back by the need for formal organizational structure. We see our role in the community as providing the structure and support of a trellis on which the vines of grassroots collaboration can grow, flourish, and bear fruit. In this capacity, Alchemist is best known for our Land-Based Work. Through these projects, we help transform blighted land into vibrant, neighborhood amenities through direct community engagement, design, and hands-on participation in creating public gardens and community gathering spaces.

Community Connections 95820: We deliver farm fresh produce and grocery staples to low-income families in south Sacramento that have barriers to accessing traditional emergency food distribution sites during the COVID crisis, (e.g., immunocompromised, senior or other COVID-vulnerable family members in the household, lack of transportation, single caregivers, etc.) We deliver this food right to their door every week at no charge. We prioritize purchasing our produce from small-midsize local growers whenever possible, resulting in additional economic support for our region.