by The initiative, part of the Fresh Food Financing Initiative (FFFI), supports food businesses and farms across 24 counties, strengthening local food systems as federal funding declines.
What Happened
The Shapiro administration announced on Thursday a $3.375 million investment through the Fresh Food Financing Initiative.
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding revealed the grant recipients during a press conference and roundtable discussion at Weaver’s Way Co-op in Germantown.
The program aims to help small food businesses, farmers, and underserved communities by providing better access to healthy, local produce.
Key Details
- Total Investment: $3.375 million in FFFI grants
- Number of Counties: 24 Pennsylvania counties
- Eligible Entities: Co-ops, grocery stores, mobile markets, and farm stands
- Priorities: USDA-designated food deserts, businesses owned by women, minorities, or veterans
Grant recipients face challenges such as lack of cold storage, delivery vehicles, food safety infrastructure, and retail space.
Recipients received funding ranging from $5,986 to $500,000 to expand storage, transportation, and retail capabilities.
Reactions or Statements
“Pennsylvania farmers do the noble work of producing fresh, healthy food every day,” said Secretary Redding.
“But too many families struggle to find affordable, fresh food close to home, and their health suffers.”
Jon Roesser, General Manager at Weaver’s Way, emphasized the need for local infrastructure:
“This grant helps us expand our mobile market and cold storage, directly serving communities that lack fresh food options.”
Investigation or What’s Next
The initiative comes as Pennsylvania faces the cancellation of $13 million in federal USDA funding.
Governor Josh Shapiro has directed the Department of Agriculture to appeal the cuts.
The Governor’s proposed 2025–26 budget includes:
- $2 million more for FFFI
- $4 million for the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System (PASS)
- $4 million for the State Food Purchase Program
These investments build on broader efforts, including $46.5 million for universal free school breakfast and expanded lunch programs.
Major Grant Recipients (Highlights)
| County | Organization | Award | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | Weaver’s Way Co-Op | $452,372 | Mobile market & cold storage |
| Dauphin | Broad Street Market | $500,000 | Facility improvements |
| Erie | Erie Food Co-Op | $200,000 | Roof replacement with solar readiness |
| Allegheny | Mayfly Market | $99,563 | Market expansion |
| Bedford | PA Beef to PA Schools | $75,000 | Local beef access for students |
| Luzerne | Vibrant Roots Farm | $26,481 | New retail storefront |
| York | York Fresh Food Farms | $12,071 | Mobile market upgrades |
FAQs
What is the Fresh Food Financing Initiative (FFFI)?
FFFI is a state program that funds projects improving access to healthy food in underserved communities through support for food businesses and local farms.
Who is eligible for FFFI grants?
Eligible entities include grocery stores, food co-ops, farm markets, and mobile food vendors—especially those in USDA-designated food deserts.
Why was the investment necessary?
Federal funding cuts and food insecurity across Pennsylvania prompted the state to invest in supporting food access and local supply chains.
Which communities will benefit most?
Low-income, rural, and urban areas with limited access to fresh food—particularly where grant recipients operate.
What’s next for Pennsylvania’s food programs?
The Shapiro administration plans further increases in funding for food assistance and local agriculture in the 2025–26 state budget.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Pennsylvania’s $3.4 million Fresh Food Financing Initiative investment marks a critical step in addressing food insecurity and supporting local farms across 24 counties.
With growing concern over federal cutbacks, the state is taking proactive measures to ensure that fresh, healthy food remains accessible to vulnerable communities while boosting local agriculture.
