SACRAMENTO – The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will discuss a variety of initiatives related to food assistance and farm to school programs at its upcoming meeting on March 2.

The board will also hear updates on California farmers’ markets and have a presentation on California’s Master Plan For Aging, which includes priorities to address hunger and nutritional needs of older Californians.

The meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 2, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. via GoToWebinar.

Meeting link: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7250741937101739276.

Webinar ID: 629-625-083.

“California’s farmers and ranchers are an invaluable part of food and nutritional assistance programs,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “There are many opportunities for engagement and great work is being done at the local level to improve access and support communities and individuals in need.”

Invited speakers include Director Kim McCoy Wade, California Department of Aging; Stacia Levenfeld and Maria Houlne, California Association of Food Banks; Steve Brazeel, SunTerra Produce; Stephen Gutwillig, Sustainable Economic Enterprises of Los Angeles; Sarah Hansen and Nicholas Anicich, CDFA’s Office of Farm to Fork; Paul Towers, Community Alliance with Family Farmers; and Allen Moy, Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association.

“Over the last year, we have seen an evolution in the connection between growers and food banks, food pantries and faith-based organizations,” said President Don Cameron, California State Board of Food and Agriculture. “As a result, I believe the agricultural community is valuing food donations as an integral part of business operations.”

The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the governor and CDFA secretary on agricultural issues and consumer needs.

The board conducts forums that bring together local, state and federal government officials; agricultural representatives; and citizens to discuss current issues and concerns to California agriculture.

This meeting will have simultaneous audio translation in Spanish and can be accessed at 844- 460-0074 at the start of the meeting.

Follow the board on twitter at www.twitter.com/Cafood_agboard.