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Grants available for urban farming

One of York Fresh Food Farms’ temporary neighborhood food stands. (Source: York Fresh Food Farms)

Individuals and organizations of all kinds are eligible to apply for grants of up to $50,000 to promote urban agriculture, the state Department of Agriculture announced Monday.

The department is looking for initiatives that enhance neighborhoods’ access to fresh, local food and eliminate “food deserts.”

“This funding helps communities turn barren lots and concrete walls in into flourishing, green spaces that feed families, bringing neighbors together, improving their health and changing their lives,” Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said in a statement.

A total of $500,000 is available. Single entities or projects can receive microgrants of up to $2,500, while cooperative or regional initiatives can receive collaboration grants of up to $50,000.

In York, the program has helped fund York Fresh Food Farms‘ Mobile Produce Market, a program in which the nonprofit sets up temporary stands in designated locations each week to sell low-cost fruits and vegetables grown on the north side of the city.

Full details and application materials are available here. Applications must be submitted online and are due by 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 26.