The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced a new partnership with the Greater Flint Health Coalition (GFHC) aimed at empowering new and beginning farmers and increasing community access to fresh, locally grown foods. The investment is a key step in MDARD’s ongoing work to strengthen regional food systems and create more opportunities for Michiganders to enjoy food grown right here in Michigan.
“MDARD continues to make strategic investments that boost the resiliency of our local food systems, reduce barriers to farming and provide healthier food to Michiganders—all with the goal of improving quality of life across the state,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “By partnering with the Greater Flint Health Coalition, we’re helping new and beginning farmers access the resources they need while expanding Flint residents’ access to healthy, Michigan-grown foods. GFHC is focused on improving community health, and we know this investment will directly support that work.”
The $498,850 grant will support GFHC’s ongoing efforts to deliver:
- Support for Flint Food Consumers
This program will build trust in local food systems by expanding the use of the Flint Eats App. This innovative, community-oriented mobile application was developed by Flint Innovative Solutions to provide consumers with information about healthy eating and local food access. The app also encourages food retailers to offer healthy options.
- Resources for New and Beginning Farmers
Educational resources will be provided to help new and beginning farmers secure land, understand regulatory requirements, implement regenerative agriculture practices and operate a profitable farming operation. In addition, grants will be offered to help new and beginning farmers obtain certifications, hire staff and procure essential equipment, infrastructure and other critical supplies.
The partners will provide logistical and strategic support to the Flint and Genesee Food Policy Council and the Multicultural Food Sovereignty Network, two civil society organizations dedicated to increasing community access to healthy foods and building more resilient and sustainable local food systems.
To support these activities, GFHC will collaborate with Flint Innovative Solutions, a Flint-based non-profit organization focused on strategically enriching the well-being of the residents of Genesee County and boosting access to community resources.
Source : michigan.gov