Regional Hubs Strengthen Link Up Illinois' Reach and Food Access

Trish Bellmore [Right], Executive Director of the Greater Wabash Food Council

Link Up Illinois is proud of the tailored assistance and marketing that we provide our Link Match partners, but local experts are often the most effective resource to connect to local community members.

That’s why Link Up Illinois partners with regional hubs who support nearby markets with everything from SNAP authorization and Link Match setup to day-to-day operations. Regional hubs help expand Link Up Illinois’ reach throughout the State. One hub that is doing exceptional work is the Greater Wabash Food Council, led by Executive Director, Trish Bellmore, who is driving these efforts and more in southeastern Illinois.

Trish and Greater Wabash started working with Link Up Illinois in 2024 as a Link Match partner running Pete’s Produce. Her dedication and vision led her to successfully establish the Greater Wabash Food Council as a regional hub partner.

Since the Hub was established, Trish continues to wow us on a daily basis. Not only has she secured SNAP authorization for Grayville Farmers Market, she has also helped establish four new farmers markets in Carmi, Fairfield, Olney, and West Salem, all of which accept SNAP and Link Match.

It is no small feat to start a farmers market and become SNAP-authorized. To accomplish this for four markets in less than six months is astounding. Trish and Greater Wabash have continued to expand affordable food access in southeastern Illinois.

Trish is a great example of how regional experts with local knowledge help their communities thrive.

“It’s been incredible to watch six communities come together in support of our local growers, makers, and producers. Despite the challenging spring weather and delayed planting due to rain, the timing of our SNAP approval couldn’t be better as we head into peak season for fresh fruits and vegetables.”

Trish Bellmore, Greater Wabash Food Council