September isn’t just any month—it’s Global Organic Month, a time to honor the farmers, retailers, and communities dedicated to growing a healthier world. This year, the CCOF Foundation is proud to partner with the Independent Natural Food Retailers Association (INFRA) to make a real impact for organic farmers across the nation.
Supporting Organic Farmers, One Store at a Time
INFRA, a network of over 600 independent natural food retailers, has long championed sustainability, local economies, and access to healthy foods. For September 2025, select INFRA members are running in-store fundraising campaigns in support of the CCOF Foundation, giving shoppers the opportunity to round up at the register and directly support organic farming initiatives. These funds help farmers transition to organic, recover from natural disasters, access financial assistance, and participate in trainings that strengthen their operations.
A History of Collaboration and Community
The story of INFRA itself is a testament to the power of independent retailers working together. What started in 2004 as a feasibility study among a small group of retailers—Jimbo’s…Naturally! in San Diego, New Leaf in Santa Cruz, Earth Fare in Asheville, and New Frontiers in Solvang—has grown into a nationwide cooperative supporting hundreds of natural food stores. By creating shared resources, marketing programs, and networking opportunities, INFRA strengthens the ability of independent retailers to support local, organic, and sustainable food systems.
CCOF Foundation: Advancing Organic Agriculture
The CCOF Foundation empowers organic farmers through education, mentorship, and financial support. To date, the CCOF Foundation has helped transition more than 168,000 acres to organic and awarded millions in grants to farmers, students, and organic professionals. By partnering with INFRA and its member stores during Organic Month, the Foundation continues its mission to grow organic agriculture, protect the land, and build resilient communities.
“INFRA is proud to support CCOF’s Future Organic Farmer grants program. We believe investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders promotes a sustainable food supply, supports thriving rural economies, and helps preserve our planet’s natural resources. The next generation of organic farmers is essential to building resilient food systems that create the foundation for human and environmental health. Our partnership not only supports young farmers, but a prosperous, resilient world where organic agriculture thrives. “-Rachel Comeaux, INFRA Business Programs Manager
Join the Movement
This September, when you shop at a participating INFRA member store, you can donate at the register to support organic farmers funded by the CCOF Foundation. Every contribution counts—helping ensure the next generation of farmers can grow healthy, sustainable food while strengthening the organic movement across the nation. Together, INFRA, the CCOF Foundation, and shoppers like you are cultivating a healthier future for our communities and our planet!
Get Involved & Donate
To learn more about the CCOF Foundation or to support our work, visit ccof.org/foundation. Your contributions help fund scholarships and provide trainings and resources for organic farmers, empowering them to grow sustainable food, protect the land, and strengthen communities. Every donation helps ensure that organic farming continues to thrive for generations to come.
