Earlier this month, the Commonwealth announced nearly $7 million in grants to 72 farms, fisheries, food banks and other community organizations across Massachusetts to help strengthen the state’s local food system and pay for equipment and facility improvements that help produce, store and deliver food.
Nearly $3 million will support food banks and other organizations working to get food to residents experiencing hunger. Other awards will help Massachusetts farmers and fishers purchase equipment, expand production and reach more customers. Through the program, Medway Community Farm will receive $73,032 to purchase a refrigerated vehicle.
The grants are awarded through the Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program, administered by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources. Awards range from approximately $10,000 to $500,000 and will fund projects including farm and fishing equipment, cold storage, commercial kitchens, food-processing equipment, and delivery vehicles.
“A strong local food system needs the right infrastructure to get fresh food from our farms and fisheries to people’s tables,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Cold storage, processing equipment, and other investments may not be the most visible parts of our food system, but they are essential to making it work. These investments help reduce food waste, expand access to locally produced food, and support healthier communities and a healthier environment.”
“The Food Security Infrastructure Grant program is a critical bright spot that empowers our farmers, fishers, and local food organizations to build robust, long-term, and resilient supply chains,” said MDAR Commissioner Ashley Randle. “We are especially proud that 60 percent of this year’s awardees are first-time grant recipients, representing a diverse cross-section of the food system and ensuring that these grants reach deeper into our communities to bolster food security while supporting local producers.”
Established in 2020, the Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program supports the equipment and facilities needed to grow, harvest, process, store, and distribute food across Massachusetts.
