The Chicago Region Food System Fund announced a request for applications from non-profit organizations responding to the impacts of COVID-19 on Chicago region communities and the local food economy. This open call follows an initial round of $895,000 awarded to nine organizations responding to the immediate pandemic impacts on communities in Chicago and on food producers, processors, and distributors in the region. Later in 2020, the fund will shift its focus to long-term work toward a resilient, racially and economically just local food system. With an initial investment of $4.2M, the Chicago Region Food System Fund focuses on hunger and business disruption in the local food system—from production to processing to distribution to consumption—in an area approximately 200 miles from Chicago (about a day’s drive to/from the city). Priority will be given to organizations producing food in, and supplying food to, communities of color. Fresh Taste, fiscally sponsored by Forefront, manages the Fund. To apply, visit ChicagoRegionFoodFund.org. Before being considered to submit a full application, interested organizations will be asked to fill out an initial screening questionnaire. Only 501(c)(3) organizations are eligible to apply. Screening questionnaires can be submitted until July 29, 5 p.m. CT.