EXTENSION CONNECTION VOLUME XCIV NO. 2 | ANNUAL REPORT
Page 2.............................................Organization Information
Page 3......................................Letter From Board President
Page 4-5................................................Financials & Mission
Pages 6-9.............Community & Economic Development
Pages 12-13............................Agriculture & Food Systems
Page 14-17..............................Youth & Family Development
Page 18-22..............................Nutrition & Health Families
Page 23............................................Our Generous Sponsors
Pages 10-11..................Environment & Natural Resources
Aaron Denman
Centermost Marketing
Hours: Mon. - Fri.
8:30 am to 4:30 pm Phone: 845-292-6180
2025 CCE SULLIVAN STAFF
sullivan@cornell.edu www.sullivancce.org
Steve Bonds-Liptay......................................................................Energy Advisor
Tracy Broyles................................................FOR Youth Program Coordinator
Alan Carroll.................................................Food Systems Program Manager
Luciana Carvo.........................................................Sullivan Fresh Coordinator
Lynn Ringuette Colavito....................Sullivan Fresh Program Coordinator
Martin Colavito............................................Prevention Programs Issue Lead
Wanda V. Cruz.........................Healthy Communities Program Coordinator
Aaron Denman.....................................Association Operations Coordinator
Gene Doyle................................................................................................Custodian
Drew Fuller..................................................Prevention Program Coordinator
Jenna Gangel..........................................................Shop Taste NY Coordinator
Katie Gasior.....................................................Horticulture Program Educator
Christopher Jones..................................................Taste NY Market Manager
Joy Leon.............................................Nutrition & Physical Activity Educator
Kim McDonnell.................................................................Taste NY Assistant Manager
Nancy McGraw...Team Leader & Caregiver Resource Center Educator
Melinda Meddaugh.............................Ag & Food Systems Sr. Issue Leader
Colleen Monaghan.................................................................Executive Director
Barbara Moran.......................4-H Youth Development Program Manager
Patricia Ocasio............................................Prevention Program Coordinator
Shanice Owens.....................Community Cupboard Program Coordinator
Abyssinia Pla El..................................................................Finance Coordinator
Monica Ponce-Agredano.....................Agriculture Operations Coordinator
Michelle Proscia........................Agriculture Production Program Manager
Ann-Marie Sidtis........................................FOR Youth Program Coordinator
Tara VanHorn.............................................................................Finance Manager
Malinda Ware...................................................Statewide Engagement Specialist
John Wilcox.............................................................................Facilities Manager
OUR
2025 FUNDERS
Alzheimer’s Association
American Farmland Trust
CCE Broome County
Cornell University
County of Sullivan
Field & Fork Network
Garnet Health Medical Center
HVCU Charitable Foundation
Neversink Ag Society
NYS Ag & Markets
NYS DEC
NYS Department of Health
NYS OASAS
NYS OTDA
Facebook.com/ccesullivanagfood Instagram.com/ccesullivan
YouTube: bit.ly/ccesullivan
PRODUCED BY HOURS CONTACT US GET SOCIAL WITH US PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE
2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dawn Parsons...........................President
Alex Alorro........................Vice President
John Garigliano.......................Treasurer
Robert Kaplan..........................Secretary
Brian McPhillips...........Legislative Rep
Patricia Claiborne...Extension Specialist
Amanda Langseder
Erika Malmgreen
Steve Marton
Mark McLewin
Jennifer Mitchell
Laura Quigley
Gary Silver
Gary Silverman
Nicole Slevin Nikolados
Diana Weiner
Heather Brown
Roberta Chambers Nu El
Courtney Hanback
Carmela Hugel
Cathi Paci
Carol Roig
Stephen Stuart
Eugene Thalmann
Deborah Worden
TASTE NY COORDINATORS
Kayla Evans, Samarra Jackson, Ashley Masopust, Veronica Yangis
NYSERDA
Regional Food Bank of NENY
Sullivan 180
University of Delaware USDA
LETTER FROM THE CCE SULLIVAN BOARD PRESIDENT
As I first start to pen this greeting, it occurs to me that it is less than ten degrees outside. Everything is snow covered, and the blowing wind will knock your socks off! So here we all are, weathering the unexpected storms together.
As we work our way into the upcoming year, we will continue to build upon the foundations established with our many partners and our amazing team. We are #CCESullivanStrong! We will build upon the compassion and sustainability of our programs for, and with, the strength of our community. The amount of dedication to our success year after year is directly attributed to everyone who has played even the most minute role, and many of the times behind the scenes! This hard work and dedication does not go unnoticed or unappreciated. The Sullivan County 4-H Youth Fair highlights hands-on experiences for our kids. The success of the county wide Farm to School workshop brought fantastic collaboration and energy.
The new farmer connections, parenting programs, and prevention outreach initiatives are all keys to the Extension community’s contributions in support of a healthier, thriving place for Sullivan County residents to live, learn, work, and play. The Sullivan Fresh Markets and Community Cupboard increase access to food to our neighbors in need, and build the ever so important individual connections and camaraderie that solidify the community. These few examples build us all and keep us #CCESullivanStrong.
As always, CCE Sullivan has been powered by the absolute dedication of the staff, volunteers, and support from our community, farmers, municipal and community partners, and our school districts. We hear the need. We work to bring hope. We focus on nutrition and wellness. We support and teach. We learn and we build, weathering the storms as one. Together, we are #CCESullivanStrong.
With gratitude for all your contributions,
Dawn Parsons Board President
2024 AUDITED FINANCIALS
Revenues Expenses Analysis
REVENUE
CCE Sullivan staff and board members introduce to the public their very own dove, located in front of the Extension Education Center.
our mission & vision
Our mission here at CCE is to share research-based education, outreach, and opportunities in response to Sullivan County’s needs in the areas of Agriculture, Nutrition, Family, and Environment.
Our local vision is for Cornell Cooperative Extension to be a key partner with the community in improving the quality of life in Sullivan County by employing the latest technology, researchbased education, and inclusive programming.
our commitment
CCE Sullivan actively supports equal educational and employment opportunities. No person shall be denied admission to any educational program or activity or be denied employment on the basis of any legally prohibited discrimination. CCE Sullivan remains dedicated to serving ALL of our neighbors, and creating an environment where folks in our workplace and programs feel valued, respected, and empowered.
Community & Economic development
CCE Sullivan’s Community & Economic Vitality programs aim to empower individuals and communities to make sound decisions for the future through access to research, resources, and community education. Through programs like the Sullivan Fresh Community Cupboard Mobile Food Pantry, Strengthening Families, and our outreach partnership with Sullivan Allies Leading Together (SALT), we provide neighborhood-based outreach and links to resources and referrals that bring hope and opportunity for meaningful connections to people’s lives with a focus on addressing food insecurity, substance use prevention, and harm reduction. [numbers in focus]
Pounds of Food Delivered by the Community Cupboard Indirect Contacts SALT Volunteers Contributors to the Community
“Through consistent outreach, we provide a vital lifeline...offering connection, stability,
Farmer Larry Watson provides fresh eggs to the Community Cupboard
SULLIVAN FRESH COMMUNITY CUPBOARD
Founded in 2020 to combat hunger during the pandemic, the Community Cupboard is going strong today. In fact, we are facing record requests for help with food from our neighbors in need.
Our mission is to sustain individuals and families facing hunger by providing enough nutritious food for multiple healthy meals each day. The Community Cupboard serves diverse populations, including residents of public housing, migrant workers, disAbled veterans, and others with limited access to services and transportation.
Food is sourced from local farms, food pantries, and donors - then distributed through deliveries in our refrigerated van plus two weekly walk-in pantry days at CCE Sullivan in Liberty.
All Community Cupboard food meets MyPlate nutrition standards, and the program operates as a registered food pantry and soup kitchen within the Hudson Valley Food Bank system, participating in the Nourish NY initiative.
Since 2020, the Cupboard provided over 800,000 free meals in Sullivan County!
Shanice Owens Sullivan Fresh ProgramCoordinator
STRENGTHENING FAMILIES WORKSHOP SERIES
Didyouknowthataccordingto psychologists,familytiesarecriticalfor healthydevelopment?Researchshows thatthequalityoffamilialrelationships hassignificanteffectsonwellbeing.Strong familytiessupportusunderstress,helpus processtrauma,andboostourself-esteem.
During the summer of 2025, CCE Sullivan hosted the Strengthening Families program.
This evidence-based, seven-session series supported families with youth ages 10–14 by strengthening family communication, relationships, and coping skills.
Each two-hour session included dinner, separate peer group time for parents and youth, followed by a joint family session to build understanding of adolescent
The program promoted family resilience,
15 strengthening families participants in 2025
Family members are empowered with Communication tools that really work .
SALT PARTNERSHIP
CCE Sullivan is a key partner of Sullivan Allies Leading Together (SALT). SALT aims to share useful information and promote healthy human development for all as the best way to stop the spread of substance use disorder and disease in Sullivan County. Through SALT, CCE Sullivan collaborated on the following initiatives in 2025, among ongoing outreach efforts.
57 Pounds of meds in that bag!
TAKE BACK DAY: KEEPING DRUGS AWAY FROM LOVED ONES
Protecting the people we care about most: that was the message on the SALT billboard about keeping drugs away from kids and pets. This campaign continued during our Unused and Expired Medication Take Back Day on October 25th. We collected 57 pounds of prescription medications. These substances were safely disposed of to help protect children, families, and the environment.
PROMOTING MATERNAL HEALTH FOR WOMEN OF COLOR
In partnership with Maternal Infant Services Network’s Black Maternal Health Coalition, CCE Sullivan and SALT screened the documentary Aftershock at the Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre on August 29th. Aftershock addresses disparities in healthcare for Black and Brown women who are pregnant and during childbirth. After the screening, there was a panel discussion with local experts in women’s health.
Environment & Natural resources
ENERGY LITERACY & RENEWABLE READINESS
Navigating the energy transition presents challenges and opportunities. As part of the Mid-Hudson Regional Clean Energy Hub, we support Sullivan County residents, small businesses, and nonprofits in making energy decisions to reduce costs while advancing sustainability and efficiency.
Through community-based energy workshops focused on practical, DIY conservation strategies, along with one-on-one advising, we help folks access programs and incentives. We empower households and organizations to improve comfort, lower energy bills, and take meaningful steps to a clean energy future.
D.I.Y. ENERGY SAVINGS SESSIONS
In 2025, CCE Sullivan held free workshops including one with the Senior Coffee Club at the Liberty Library on November 3rd where 35 participants received free energy kits valued at $45 (kits pictured below). They learned “do-it-yourself” actions to reduce energy waste and save on utility bills. The kit included 2 LED light bulbs, weatherstripping, door sweep, power strip, window insulation, foam tape, plus a foam outlet and switch gaskets. Also covered in the session were heat pumps, insulation, incentives for home [energy numbers in focus]
Energy Contacts
Individuals Received One-on-One Energy Advising & Support
Energy Efficiency Workshops Held That Reached... ...Total Participants 2,350 65 12 194
[horticulture numbers in focus]
1,589 389
Horticulture Contacts
Inquiries
[2025 horticulture programs]
Invasive Species in Sullivan County
Create Your Own Cut Flower Garden
Gardening 101 Workshop Series
John’s Edible Native Garden Workshop
Hurleyville Rail Trail
Invasive Species Walk
Compost & Vermiculture in a Home Garden
Planting Bulbs: Fall Garden Workshop
Invasive Species in NY: 2 Part Series
STRONG ECOSYSTEMS
DIGGING DEEP INTO THE HORTICULTURE PROGRAM
The Horticulture program offers a variety of workshops on preserving our region’s natural heritage through gardening. In the face of a changing climate, extreme weather events, and opportunistic invasive species, it is more important than ever to boost ecological resilience in our own backyard.
By knowing and cultivating the keystone native species of the Catskills, we not only deepen our connection to nature, but we support pollinators, wildlife, biodiversity and the very food web that all creatures rely on.
Digging into the soil we begin to understand – soil provides for life itself. Soil is a complex ecosystem offering nutrient cycling, water purification, food production, and decomposition. We must enrich and protect dirt because it provides mineral- and nutrient-dense food to keep us all healthy.
“I enjoyed spending time with others from our community at the invasive species walk (pictureD at left) and meeting people who care about this issue.”
-Anonymous Participant
Agriculture & Food Systems
CCE Sullivan’s Agriculture & Food Systems program promotes resilience and collaboration across Sullivan County by supporting farms of all sizes: from dairy and livestock producers to vegetable growers, maple producers, and emerging specialty crops. Through technical assistance, business planning, and marketing support, we help farms remain viable and adapt to change.
Our work extends beyond the farm gate into the broader food system, connecting local products to schools, institutions, and families with initiatives like Farm to School, emergency food partnerships, and consumer education.
These efforts keep dollars circulating locally, reduce food miles, and ensure access to fresh, healthy food for all residents. By linking producers and consumers, we build a stronger agricultural economy and a more resilient Sullivan County food system.
KEEPING AGRICULTURE GOING STRONG IN THE CATSKILLS
1,609
1,575 38 152 [ag numbers in focus]
Participants supported through education
Contacts
Workshops,
In 2025, CCE Sullivan launched its Farmland Preservation Program to protect working lands and expand land access for future farmers. This is a collaborative effort with Sullivan County (which provided funding), the Sullivan County Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board, and Orange County Land Trust. This year’s focus was education and outreach. We hosted workshops for farmers, municipal leaders, and landowners on farmland protection strategies, community preservation funds, planning tools, and pathways to land access. With support from American Farmland Trust, we connected local producers to resources such as the NYS Farmland Finder, which matches landowners with aspiring farmers. Together, we’re laying the foundation for a resilient agricultural future in Sullivan County.
STRONG ROOTS. STRONG STARTS. THE BEGINNER FARMER PROGRAM
CCE Sullivan’s Beginner Farmer Program, funded by the USDA, supports those starting their agricultural journey in Sullivan County. Through workshops, one-on-one consults, and our Beginner Farmer Mentorship Program, participants learn about production, business planning, and marketing.
A key feature of the program is hands-on learning: attendees visit working farms to see operations in action and learn directly from experienced producers.
These experiences help new farmers build confidence, develop skills, and understand farm management. The result? Skilled, resilient producers who will sustain Sullivan County’s agricultural future.
“I appreciate all of your help, this class has been super fruitful for me... pun intended :).”
-Matt M. a Participant in the Beginner Farmer Program
Andrea felt ready for a new path. One day, a rare hummingbird moth appeared in her garden, drawn only to places where native flowers thrive. To Andrea, it felt like a sign: beauty, resilience, and the power of creating the right conditions for life. The idea for the flower farm was planted. Today, El Colibri Flowers is building healthy soil from the ground up and nurturing strong flowers and pollinators. It’s a place where soil, flowers, and people connect.
Pictured: Beginner Farmer Mixers at Seminary Hill (top), Finca Seremos (below).
Andrea Ramirez (pictured above) is a mentee in our Beginner Farmer Mentorship Program.
Youth + Family Development
CCE Sullivan’s Youth & Family Development programs emphasize human development and social wellbeing, economic wellbeing, and quality of the home environment. With a focus on youth development, parenting, and informal caregiving practices, program offerings like Strengthening Families, 4-H Youth Development, and the Caregiver Resource Center include behavioral and psychological development themes from conception through end of life.
4-H Volunteers 559 879 143
Participants in 4-H Programs
Youth Fair Entries
Cheers to 50 Years of Volunteer Service to the 4-H Program from Linda & Bob Kays!
Horse Bowl & Hippology
Trail Riding Program
Earth Defenders Program
Food Miles
Public Presentations
Fiber Arts for All
Auction Meeting
Artisan Markets Meeting
As a proud 4-H leader and alumni of the Sullivan County 4-H Horse Program, I can say this program is transformative for countless youth. It teaches horsemanship and instills responsibility, leadership, and teamwork in a supportive environment. I am impressed by the passion and dedication of our 4-H members, and it is an honor to guide them. The program cultivates a love for horses and provides invaluable life skills that prepare youth for success. I am grateful for the opportunities and memories this program gave me and many others.
—Megan B.
Equine Welfare Class Agriculture Club
Participants in the 4-H Horse Bowl lead the Pledge of Allegiance and prepare for competition.
4-H SHOWS LIVESTOCK AT THE GRAHAMSVILLE LITTLE WORLD’S FAIR
The Annual Sullivan County Youth Fair Animal Science and Livestock Shows, held the third weekend of August at the Grahamsville Little World’s Fair, provide hands-on education in animal husbandry and care while helping youth grow into confident, capable, and responsible adults.
In a safe and engaging environment, Sullivan County youth build practical skills and community connections under the guidance of dedicated adult volunteers.
This event is made possible through the commitment of dozens of volunteers and CCE staff who coordinate exhibits, schedules, animal care and biosafety, volunteer training, public activities, regulatory requirements, and show preparation. The result is a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all of the youth participants.
“ “
—Ryann M.
Being a part of 4-H has given me the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally through showing livestock. Working with animals has taught me responsibility, time management, patience, and adapting my skills to meet each animal’s needs. Through 4-H, I have learned the value of hard work, commitment, and sportsmanship, and I am proud of the knowledge and experiences that will stay with me for years to come.
All youth pictured showed their animals at the Annual Sullivan County Youth Fair.
[CRC numbers in focus]
388 28 9
Information & Assistance Calls
Caregiver Support Groups Held
Educational Workshops
Tai Chi Classes (Three 8-week series)
Bone Builders Classes (Two 10-week series)
WISE Classes (Three 6-week series)
DISCOVER THE CAREGIVER RESOURCE CENTER
The Sullivan County Caregiver Resource Center (CRC) serves as a central hub providing seniors and caregivers with information, assistance and referrals to community resources, and support groups for caregivers and Parkinson’s Disease. Funded by the Office for the Aging, NYS Department of Health, and the Alzheimer’s Association, CRC also offers workshops on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, improving brain health, financial and legal planning, home and personal safety, falls prevention, and dementia care management. The CRC offers evidence-based Tai Chi and Bone Builders classes for seniors.
In 2025, CRC launched the Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE) in collaboration with SALT. WISE is a series of 6 classes for seniors, focused on a different wellness topic each week to enhance awareness of senior health and wellbeing. Topics include lifestyle choices, medication safety, health care system navigation, and improving mental health. Pictured above are participants celebrating their last WISE class. At far right is CRC Leader Nancy McGraw and SALT Leader Martin Colavito.
BUILDERS WORKSHOPS
We are grateful that Joy Mendelsohn, MD, offered to volunteer with the Caregiver Resource Center and teach Bone Builders, an osteoporosis prevention program for seniors. As an evidence-based program, Bone Builders has been successfully implemented in other CCEs across the state. This program has a special meaning for Joy as a retired physician and daughter of a mother who suffered from osteoporosis. She finds it important to give back to the community by educating seniors about the importance of strong bones as they age. Joy has contributed over 20 hours of volunteer services and is currently offering her third Bone Builders class series this spring. Thank you, Joy! (She is pictured at right leading a class.)
STRONG Solutions
Thank you for a good program. I found it very relaxing and calming and the program helped foster a better sense of body awareness, ease and flexibility of movement.
I feel this program was great. Nancy is a wonderful instructor. Please keep offering these types of classes.
“
Wonderful series of classes. Very clear and patient instructor. Nice group of people who attend each week. I can use this info for lifelong exercise.
“
Martin Colavito talks with WISE participants about safer strategies to reduce risks in their lives.
Nutrition & Healthy Families
This department includes outreach and education linked to childhood health; youth, family and community nutrition and physical activity; and food security. Programs include Creating Healthy Schools and Communities (CHSC), Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP), food service guidelines, efforts such as school-based nutrition education, Sullivan Fresh Farmers Markets and related market purchase incentive programs, and SNAP-ed nutrition education. CCE programs address access to food, nutrition, and food safety.
CONNECTING SENIORS WITH RESOURCES TO IMPROVE HEALTH
“Eat Healthy Be Active” was a six-week, in-person program held at CCE Sullivan. Participants explored fun, affordable ways to eat healthier. The group learned to plan meals, understand MyPlate, and make informed food choices to improve their wellbeing. Eligible participants earned up to $40 per class to spend on fresh, local produce in Orange and Sullivan Counties. The program supported physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing while encouraging lasting healthy lifestyle changes. Along the way, wonderful friendships were built!
GET OUTDOORS! GROUP WALKS AT CCE SULLIVAN’S TURTLE SPRING TRAIL
Research shows that physical activity, social connections, and an active environment support health and longevity. This summer, we hosted a 5-week walking series on the Turtle Spring Trail, a path behind the Extension Education Center. Participants strolled at their own pace through the forest, enjoying fresh air, sunshine, and the natural beauty of the trail, while using fitness stations to build strength and flexibility. The series offered encouragement, conversation, and a chance to connect with other health-focused residents in a relaxed, outdoor setting. This was part of the Public Health Essentials project which also included the Friday Fitness Series (below).
TGIF! IT’S FRIDAY FITNESS
Friday Fitness, as well as Monday Movement, are inclusive, hour-long programs held at CCE Sullivan. Sessions blend music-guided practices inspired by dance, martial arts, and healing arts, creating an engaging fitness experience for participants. The non-slip mats pictured at right were supported by the Public Health Essentials Community Grant.
“I love the music...and working on my flexibility, agility, and stability.”
-Friday Fitness Participant
STRONG ROUTINES
STRONG BODIES
CREATING HEALTHY SCHOOLS & COMMUNITIES (CHSC) CELEBRATES
A DECADE OF POSITIVE CHANGE
Did you know CHSC has been going strong for ten years? CCE Sullivan, in partnership with communities and organizations such as Sullivan 180 and the Sullivan County Childcare Council, have transformed lives in our communities, daycare homes and schools.
From launching yoga, Farm to School days, school-wide apple taste tests and more in schools to improving walkability, accessibility, and safety of trails within municipalities, so much has been - and is being - accomplished! It’s impossible to list the hundreds of actions by the CCE Sullivan CHSC team, so we’re spotlighting a handful of recent projects...
ADDING NEW LAYERS OF FITNESS
CHSC assisted local municipalities with purchasing on-trail fitness equipment to turn an already healthy walk or run into a strength-building opportunity. In fact, the first time CHSC installed fitness equipment (pictured at left) was along the Turtle Spring Trail at CCE Sullivan in Liberty!
REWRITING THE MENU FOR HEALTH
From golf course cafés to ballpark concessions, CHSC has helped to author many nutrition-forward food service guidelines. CHSC has partnered with municipalities and public recreation facilities to rework menus to include healthy options. CHSC also funded salad bar equipment and air fryers, with the goal of eliminating deep fried foods.
MEET YOU AT THE MARKET...MADE POSSIBLE BY CHSC SUPPORT
CHSC has developed strong relationships with municipalities and is often brought to the table, literally, for input. For example, when the Town of Mamakating explored starting a farmers market, CHSC was invited as a partner to Town Board meetings for support in the planning, promotion, and logistics of a thriving market now located at Veterans Park on 3rd and Sullivan Street. CHSC has a longstanding partnership with Mamakating and has collaborated on walking trails, access points, and more.
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION SUPPORT
CHSC fosters relationships with early childhood education facilities: from large preschools to home-based centers like Jessica’s Daycare (right).
CHSC has helped Jessica’s Daycare acquire both indoor and outdoor assets to encourage physical activity and gross motor skill development.
STRONG STARTS
Research shows that gross motor activities like running, climbing, balancing, and hopping set the stage for learning fine motor skills - ultimately setting kids up for success when they enter school.
“
These improvements not only make our streets safer but also show what can be achieved when community partners work together. We’re grateful for CCE Sullivan’s partnership in creating safer streets for everyone.
-Steven D’Agata, Liberty Chief of Police
THE IMPACT OF SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL (SRTS) IN LIBERTY & FALLSBURG
There has been a serious speeding problem around the Liberty Elementary, Middle, and High Schools. CHSC and the Liberty Chief of Police worked together, presenting solutions to the School District Board and Village of Liberty. Ultimately, four solar-powered digital radar signs displaying the driver’s speed were purchased. In addition, a group of students were inspired to create a SRTS committee!
CHSC and the Town of Fallsburg partnered with an Orthodox school community to provide solutions to improve safety on campus. People were parking where the bus dropped off students, and students biking to school had nowhere to store their bikes. CHSC installed a NO PARKING sign where buses drop off and pick up students along with a bench and bike rack (sign at left, bench at right). -
“
Above: Steven D’Agata, Liberty Chief of Police pictured with Healthy Communities Coordinator Wanda
FARMERS MARKET COOKING DEMOS MAKE HEALTHY EATING DELICIOUS, FUN & COMMUNITY FOCUSED!
If you were at a Sullivan Fresh Farmers Market or a Sullivan Catskills Farmers Market this summer and fall, and noticed people hovering around Joy, chances are you’d see her creating a delicious meal from fresh, nutritious ingredients like a cucumber tuna boat (pictured at right), a crowd favorite! Joy, other CCE staff, and Sandra of Organic
SALUD FUERTE
Strong Health
GETTING FRESH FOR A GOOD CAUSE, TOGETHER
The Sullivan Fresh Cooking Class was a series of hands-on cooking events celebrating seasonal ingredients and local, farm-fresh foods. Participants prepared and enjoyed a complete meal together in the new, fully equipped teaching kitchen. All proceeds supported the Sullivan Fresh Food Security Program, which expands access to healthy food in Sullivan County through farmers markets as well as the Community Cupboard.
FRESH RX: THE POWER TO IMPROVE HEALTH IS IN YOUR HANDS
In 2025, the FreshRx Program supported food security and chronic disease prevention. Participants could earn FreshRx bucks attending cooking demos at farmers markets. These bucks could then be spent on fruits and veggies at the market. The program, funded by GusNIP, focused on improving diet-related health outcomes while reducing food insecurity through education, produce access, and community collaboration. While the program has ended, participants have until August 2026 to spend their bucks!
