Grant opportunities for fresh food access in USDA

Jun 25, 2024

New program brings fresh food to underserved communities

By Farms.com

Many communities, particularly in rural areas, lack access to fresh and affordable healthy food options. To address this issue, the USDA unveiled a new program – the Food Access and Retail Expansion Fund (FARE Fund). Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, FARE Fund offers $60 million over five years to improve access to healthy food in underserved areas.

"We are committed to ensuring all Americans have access to healthy food," said Secretary Vilsack. FARE Fund provides loans and grants to food retailers and suppliers to establish or expand their presence in communities lacking grocery stores.

Eligible entities can apply for funding to support various activities, including project development, land acquisition, infrastructure improvements, and equipment purchases. The program also offers technical assistance to help develop and implement healthy food projects.

FARE Fund is an extension of the successful HFFI program, which has already provided over $65 million to fight food deserts nationwide. This initiative is part of the USDA's broader commitment to rural development and creating economic opportunities in underserved communities.

Video: Evidence-Based PRRS Elimination Methods - Dr. Brent Pepin

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Brent Pepin, Director of Swine Health at the National Pork Board, explains how a systematic review of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus elimination methods is helping shape future herd health strategies. He discusses evidence-based farm and regional approaches, research gaps, and practical guidance to support informed decision-making across the swine industry. Listen now on all major platforms!

Click here to learn more: https://porkcheckoff.org/research/sys...

"Disease status sharing gives producers the opportunity to make real-time decisions that reduce PRRS prevalence and protect regions from new exposure."

Meet the guest: Dr. Brent Pepin / brent-pepin-dvm-ms-7988066b is Director of Swine Health at the National Pork Board. After earning his DVM and M.S. from Iowa State University, he built extensive experience in swine veterinary practice, research, and herd health management. His current work focuses on disease control, traceability, and improving herd health across the U.S. swine industry. Listen to Brent Pepin on The Swine it Podcast Show, available on all major platforms.