Department Of Agriculture: $500,000 Available To Improve Urban Agriculture Infrastructure, Combat Food Apartheid

Department Of Agriculture: $500,000 Available To Improve Urban Agriculture Infrastructure, Combat Food Apartheid

Harrisburg, PA – Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding today announced the opening of the 2020-21 PA Farm Bill’s $500,000 Urban Agriculture Grant Program to grow agricultural infrastructure in urban food deserts to improve access to fresh, local food and provide opportunities for hands-on learning and community-building.

First Light Project uses hydroponic technology on farms throughout the city to grow and sell leafy greens and herbs. They train and employ residents to operate the hydroponic farm, address food insecurity, inspire the community, and support the local economy. First Light used their $37,884 Urban Ag Grant funds to offset the cost of a full-scale hydroponic farm in the Philabundance Warehouse. Upon completion of development, the farm will employ five local community members, four high school interns annually, and is expected to produce nearly 100,000 pounds of produce annually. Of this fresh produce, the farm is committed to donating at least 10 percent directly to community partners to reduce food insecurity in Philadelphia.

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https://www.media.pa.gov/Pages/Agriculture_details.aspx?newsid=1046