Jennifer Perry (Photo — Caperton Tissot)

Jennifer Perry had long wondered what she could do about the declining state of the environment. Rather than just complain, she sought some kind of positive action. She found a way to fulfill this desire last winter by establishing a local food distribution network.

Her organization goes by the name “Farm to Family Food Network” and operates in a manner similar to other rapidly developing local food delivery programs around the country.

For a small fee, she acts as a go-between, bringing small local farmers (from within a 50-mile range) together with customers looking for fresh, healthy and tasty food.

By buying from these farms, her network reduces transportation costs, delivers quality produce and helps ensure sustainable agricultural practices. Small farms, which generally operate at a loss, gain a reliable income base, while customers acquire local sources for organically grown produce, as well as free-range, humanely slaughtered, a