New York boosts access to fresh food with grant programs

By Blake Jackson

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) and the Office of Temporary and Disability Services (OTDA) announced over $1.1 million awarded to fight food insecurity. Funding supports two grant programs: SNAP-Ed Food Box and Community Growers.

These initiatives aim to expand access to healthy, affordable food in underserved communities across New York. They also support the state's agricultural industry by connecting farmers with new markets.

"The programs are critical in boosting access to fresh food, particularly for those who struggle," said Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball. He highlighted the success of the 2022 round and praised the continued partnership with OTDA.

Acting OTDA Commissioner Barbara Guinn echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the positive impact on health outcomes for low-income families.

Community Gardens and Nutrition Education

The SNAP-Ed Community Growers Grant Program awards funds to urban farming and nutrition education projects. It supports community gardens and non-profit farms working to:

• Increase food security in underserved areas
• Help communities develop skills to grow and cook healthy food

This round awarded over $999,000 to 21 grantees across the state. Examples include:

• Radix Ecological Center's "Food Sovereignty and Nutrition Education Program"
• Soul Fire Farm Institute's "Soul Fire in the City" initiative
• GrowNYC's "Community Growers Renovation Project"

SNAP-Ed Food Box Grant Program

This program focuses on providing affordable access to fresh, local produce for SNAP recipients and food-insecure communities. It also encourages participants to connect with local farmers.

In 2024, $129,807 was awarded to 13 grantees. Some examples include:

• Schenectady Green Market's "The Schenectady Greenmarket Food Box"
• GrowNYC's "GrowNYC's Crown Heights Farmstand SNAP-Ed Community Days"
• Seeds in the Middle's "Hip2B Healthy Farm Stands in Brownsville"

Building a Stronger Food System

These grant programs align with Governor Kathy Hochul's focus on increasing local food access and urban farming. Additional funding in the 2025 budget supports initiatives like:

• Nourish New York program ($50 million)
• Urban Farms and Community Gardens Grant Program
• FreshConnect CSA for SNAP
• FreshConnect Fresh2You

These programs provide a boost to New York farmers, improve access to local food, and strengthen the state's food system.

The state also leverages federal funding to further these efforts. A $49.6 million grant from the USDA supports the "New York Food For New York Families" program, which aims to:

• Connect farmers with food banks and local food networks
• Improve food access in underserved communities
• Support local and disadvantaged farmers

By investing in these programs, New York is taking significant steps to ensure all residents have access to healthy, affordable food.

Photo Credit: istock-elenathewise