Congresswoman Matsui Announces U.S. Department of Agriculture Grants to Support Local Foods Infrastructure
Grants will support local Farm-To-Fork effort at Sacramento farmers markets
WASHINGTON, DC – October 8, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-06) announced that the Sacramento region has received nearly $400,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support local and regional food programs.
“Sacramento’s growing prominence as the Farm-to-Fork capital is just one reason our region is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Our agricultural abundance makes our region unique, and I am pleased the USDA is providing funds to make fresh foods available to all, regardless of income levels.”
Sacramento NeighborWorks will receive over $50,000 to support Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients by raising awareness at Oak Park farmers markets. The Health Education Council of West Sacramento will receive $240,000 to provide technical training and support to SNAP farmers market managers and to conduct outreach to SNAP customers. Additionally, UC Davis will receive nearly $100,000 to increase the competitiveness of small-scale California farmers by providing technical assistance and training.
“Today, USDA is helping to create economic opportunities for producers, increase access to fresh, healthy food for consumers, and connect rural and urban communities across the country,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Each of the grants announced today targets a unique part of the growing market for local foods. We are also expanding access for current SNAP participants to the wonderful array of fresh produce at America’s farmers markets, which is important to a healthy diet.”
“The Health Education Council is pleased to have this opportunity to expand access to our region’s farm-fresh fruits and vegetables for families and individuals to increase produce consumption. In collaboration with our partners, Alchemist and the Public Health Institute, we are excited that we will connect more local farmers’ markets to families who use CalFresh within Placer, Nevada, Sacramento and Yolo Counties,” said Debra Oto-Kent, Executive Director of the Health Education Council.
“NeighborWorks Sacramento founded the Oak Park Farmers Market 6 years ago because the area residents have very limited access to affordable, fresh food,” said NeighborWorks CEO Pam Canada. “This USDA grant will allow more families, including those receiving Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, to have access to locally grown, healthy food.”
CONTACT: JULIE EDDY
(202) 225-7163
