Yellow Turban Rebellion Fund

A gift can reach far beyond its first recipient. Through his donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada, Ernie Wu is helping neighbors put fresh, nutritious food on the table and is also supporting the farmers who grow it. His approach shows that giving with a clear purpose can address immediate needs while strengthening the local food system for the future.

Established in 2022 by Ernie, the Yellow Turban Rebellion Fund has launched a community initiative that connects local farmers with the Great Basin Community Food Co-op and the Food Bank of Northern Nevada. Backed by a multi-year commitment from the Fund, the project launched in February 2026 by purchasing grass-fed ground beef directly from Reno’s Avanzino Farms to expand access to food and strengthen our local food system.

The Local Producer Subsidy & Senior Assistance Program addresses two interconnected challenges: the high cost of food and the financial pressures on local farmers. By making local organic produce and meats more affordable and ensuring farmers receive fair compensation, the program keeps healthy food within reach and regional farms viable.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

How It Works

The Co-op pays local farmers “Integrity Pricing,” fair compensation that covers their true production costs. The subsidy then allows the Co-op to offer those foods at prices competitive with industrial organic produce, often selling them for less than it paid the farmers. Shoppers benefit from lower prices, and farmers receive the income they need to sustain their work.

Featured Subsidized Items & Partners

•     Grass-Fed Ground Beef: Avanzino Farms (Reno, NV)

•     Carrots: Ripcord Farm (Washoe Valley, NV)

•     Bagged Greens & Radishes: Sierra Valley Farm Beckwourth, CA) and Prema Farm (Long Valley, NV)

•     Herbs & Collards: Reno Food Systems (Reno, NV) and Churchill Butte Organics (Stagecoach, NV)

•     Beets: Jim Davenport (Yerington, NV)

•     Tomatoes & Chard: Holley Family Farms (Dayton, NV)

•     Garlic: Mewaldt’s Organics (Fallon, NV)

The initiative also reaches local seniors. A designated share of the subsidized food supports a pilot program with the Food Bank of Northern Nevada through its existing Seniors on Wheels mobile delivery service. Customer “Round Up” contributions at Co-op registers and gifts from other private donors help cover the full cost of purchasing food from local farmers, enabling delivery of free, nutrient-dense groceries to seniors.

LOCAL GIVING. LOCAL IMPACT

Ernie’s approach illustrates what thoughtful local giving can accomplish. By recognizing the connection among food affordability, farmers’ livelihoods, and seniors’ nutritional needs, he is helping create benefits that extend throughout the community. His multi-year commitment also provides partners with the support they can plan around.

A donor-advised fund (DAF) at the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada offers a simple, flexible way to bring that same sense of purpose to your philanthropy. You can consolidate charitable contributions in one fund, recommend grants on your own timeline, and involve loved ones in supporting the causes that matter most to you. Our team’s local knowledge can help you identify community needs and connect with organizations making a difference across Northern Nevada.

Whether you’re considering your first DAF or exploring strategic and informed approaches to your current giving, our team is here to help you turn your charitable goals into meaningful local impact.

Learn more about the Local Producer Subsidy & Senior Assistance Program 

The Great Basin Community Food Co-op 

Amber Sallaberry  

Co-Founder & General Manager 

www.greatbasinfood.coop  

775.324.6133 co-op 

775.688.9067 cell