USDA invests $6M to boost healthy food access nationwide

USDA invests in healthy food access

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a partnership with Reinvestment Fund, committing nearly $6 million to enhance access to healthy foods in underserved communities nationwide.

This initiative is part of the Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) Planning Grant Program, which provides funding for organizations aiming to develop healthy food retail and supply chain projects in their early planning stages.

“No matter where you live in our country, you should be able to get affordable, fresh, and healthy food close to home,” Deputy Secretary Torres Small said. “Through the Administration, USDA is working with farmers and ranchers, food retailers, and other stakeholders to strengthen the local and regional food systems we all count on. Reinvestment Fund has been a key partner to USDA in these efforts and today’s investments will ensure more communities get the nutritious food we all deserve.”

This funding, made possible through the American Rescue Plan Act, aims to establish better markets that benefit both producers and consumers.

HFFI is focused on creating and enhancing markets for a diverse range of growers while improving access to affordable, healthy foods across the country.

The announcement highlights investments supporting planning for 45 projects aimed at developing or expanding food retail and supply chain business models.

Among the projects is the Orchard Community Learning Center in Arizona, which will receive nearly $124,000 to initiate planning for a neighborhood food retailer in south Phoenix, featuring SNAP-eligible products and an on-site farm.

In Atlanta, Georgia, Patchwork City Farms will utilize a $150,000 investment to transform its farming operation into a 5,000 square-foot health and wellness hub, complete with a commercial kitchen and retail space.

The North Flint Reinvestment Corp. in Michigan will also receive $150,000 to establish a fresh food market aimed at revitalizing the community.

Overall, this funding initiative aims to improve access to healthy food across numerous states, including Alaska, California, New York, and Texas, among others.