By Blake Jackson
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball has announced the opening of applications for the 2025 FreshConnect CSA for SNAP program.
This initiative aims to expand access to fresh, locally sourced produce for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants through Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs.
The program subsidizes up to half the cost of CSA shares for SNAP recipients, while simultaneously supporting New York's farmers.
"All New Yorkers deserve access to fresh, nutritious foods, grown right here in New York State," Commissioner Ball stated. "The FreshConnect CSA for SNAP program is a great example of connecting the dots between our farmers and our consumers, helping to ensure that New Yorkers using SNAP can access CSA shares full of delicious locally grown produce. This program feeds our families and supports our farmers, and I encourage eligible organizations to consider applying."
The program provides funding to eligible organizations, including non-profits, tribal organizations, educational institutions, and local governments, to partially cover the cost of weekly CSA shares for SNAP participants.
This reduces the financial burden on consumers while ensuring farmers receive full payment for their produce. Up to 50% of the weekly share cost can be subsidized.
Funding, totaling $250,000, will be awarded on a rolling basis until exhausted. Applicants can request between $25,000 and $50,000 for their projects. The deadline for applications is July 22, 2025, at 3:00 pm.
To assist potential applicants, a webinar was conducted on March 18, 2025. A recording of this webinar is available at meetny-gov.webex.com/meetny-gov/ldr.php?RCID=355d6897dfbdedfc540bc9b2972269f7.
This program aligns with Governor Kathy Hochul's goals of increasing demand for New York agricultural products, strengthening the state's food supply chain, and ensuring equitable access to fresh, local foods for all New Yorkers. Further details can be found at https://agriculture.ny.gov/rfa-0367-freshconnect-csa-snap-program-2025.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: New York, Government & Policy