Local Matters

About Local Matters

Local Matters is a non-profit organization established in 2008 by co-founders Michael Jones and Noreen Warnock. Their partnership began in 2005, stemming from a mutual concern for the prevailing food system and its effects on community health and well-being. Warnock's personal history of growing up in a financially insecure household instilled in her a deep commitment to ensuring equitable access to healthy food for all. This personal drive, combined with Jones' executive experience and Warnock's extensive knowledge of local and national food systems, created a complementary leadership team. Their collective expertise in public health, food preparation, and community organizing laid the groundwork for the organization's strategic direction.

Operating as a 501(c)(3) entity based in Columbus, Ohio, Local Matters aims to build healthier communities through a multi-faceted approach encompassing food education, access, advocacy, and rescue. The organization's programs are designed to serve a wide demographic, from young children to seniors, with a particular focus on addressing the needs of low-income communities. A core service is the 'Food Matters' program, an educational curriculum that teaches individuals how to grow, cook, and access affordable, healthy food. To directly improve food availability, the organization runs the 'Veggie Van,' a mobile market that delivers fresh produce and other groceries to various neighborhoods. In 2023, the organization reported revenues of $1.61 million and expenses of $1.42 million.

Local Matters' business model is rooted in its non-profit status, relying on a combination of contributions, grants, program service fees, and community support for its funding. The organization has established partnerships with various community entities and advocates for policy changes to create a more sustainable and equitable food system. Since its inception, Local Matters has reached over 180,000 individuals through its various services and initiatives. The organization also spearheads the Columbus Food Rescue initiative, which diverts surplus food from landfills to communities in need, and is involved in developing the Columbus-Franklin County Food Action Plan.