to feed those in need across the state of RI. Last year the Rhode Island Community Food Bank acquired and distributed nearly 10 million pounds of food for our network of member agencies. Fresh produce has become increasingly important as we work to not only feed people, but feed them healthy, core foods that they can use to make meals for their families. Last year, fresh produce accounted for over 2 million pounds of the food we distributed. We work in partnership with eight community farms throughout Rhode Island. The community farms have been a great source of fresh produce during the growing season, donating over 45,000 pounds during FY 13. Our program staff work with each farm to assess the farm's needs, arrange volunteers and transport produce to the Food Bank. Additionally, we developed a Farm Forum that brings together community farms to discuss best practices, share feedback and demonstrate the importance of donated fresh produce for low-income clients of emergency food programs.