Source: US State of Pennsylvania
October 16, 2024 – Erie, PA
Shapiro Administration Invests $4 Million to Grow Ag Industry, Expand Fresh, Affordable Food Access Across Pennsylvania
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced the relaunch of the Fresh Food Financing Initiative (FFFI) that will invest $4 million in businesses working to expand access to fresh food across Pennsylvania. At Erie Food Co-op, Redding toured upgrades, funded by an FFFI grant during the COVID-19 pandemic, that are helping the business to connect the community with fresh, more affordable local food.
Governor Josh Shapiro devoted $2 million per year in each of his first two bipartisan state budgets to revive the initiative previously been funded with federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) dollars. Legislation giving the PA Department of Agriculture authority to spend the money followed in 2024.
“Pennsylvania farmers are at the top of their game at producing fresh, healthy food, Secretary Redding said. “But too many families struggle to find – or afford — fresh food in their communities, and their health suffers. Fresh Food Financing grants help grocery stores and markets in those communities expand to meet that need. The initiative is one more way the Shapiro Administration is investing in opportunities for Pennsylvania farms, food businesses, and families to succeed.”
Speakers Include:
Leanna Nieratko (CEO, food co-op)
Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding
Sarah Parker (farmer, Parable Farm)
Rep. Bob Merski
Sen. Dan Laughlin