By Jamie Martin
USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small announced a collaboration with Reinvestment Fund, pledging almost $6 million to enhance access to nutritious foods in underserved areas throughout the United States.
This investment is facilitated through the Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) Planning Grant Program, which supports organizations with funding for food retail and supply chain projects during the early planning stages.
“No matter where you live in our country, you should be able to get affordable, fresh, and healthy food close to home,” Deputy Secretary Torres Small said. “Through the Administration, USDA is working with farmers and ranchers, food retailers, and other stakeholders to strengthen the local and regional food systems we all count on. Reinvestment Fund has been a key partner to USDA in these efforts and today’s investments will ensure more communities get the nutritious food we all deserve.”
This initiative is part of USDA's broader strategy, which is backed by funding from the American Rescue Plan Act, aimed at developing better markets for both producers and consumers.
HFFI strives to foster new and expanded markets for diverse growers while ensuring that Americans have access to healthy, affordable food.
The funding announcement includes support for planning activities across 45 different projects focused on improving food retail and supply chains.
For instance, Arizona's Orchard Community Learning Center will use nearly $124,000 to plan for a neighborhood food retailer that provides SNAP-eligible fresh produce, alongside an on-site farm.
In Georgia, Patchwork City Farms will receive a $150,000 investment to expand into a health and wellness hub, featuring a commercial kitchen and retail space.
Additionally, the North Flint Reinvestment Corp. in Michigan will also utilize $150,000 to create a fresh food market aimed at revitalizing its community.
These investments will significantly enhance access to healthy foods across various states, including Alaska, California, Pennsylvania, and Texas, benefiting many underserved communities nationwide.
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Categories: National