With its Food Insecure Cost-Share Grant, the Missouri Department of Agriculture is assisting in the fight against food insecurity in the state. Offering grants of up to $50,000, the program aims to address the needs of Missourians experiencing a shortage of food, particularly in populated urban areas. This significant grant effort is managed by Missouri Grown Programme Manager Taylor Tuttle.
Over the years, the grant has funded a diverse array of projects, each contributing to empowering communities and individuals facing food insecurity. A few examples of supported projects are community gardens, permanent farmer's markets, ag education facilities, and community kitchens. The focus is on educating residents on food production, providing them access to fresh produce, and offering facilities for food processing.
Applications for the Food Insecure Cost-Share Grant must show how they will benefit people living in urbanized areas, as determined by the 2020 U.S. Census, to be accepted. This means that even rural places like Peculiar and Mexico qualify for assistance in reducing food insecurity.
The projects should be finished or almost finished by March 31, 2024, and the application deadline for this funding opportunity is August 31. Successful applicants can expect grant awards in late September, enabling them to proceed with their initiatives.
The grant program follows House Bill 6 and is specifically designed to address food insecurity in urbanized areas identified by the U.S. Census Bureau. By referring to the Census Bureau's listing, the Missouri Department of Agriculture ensures that the funding goes to initiatives where the need is most acute.
Recipients of the Food Insecure Cost-Share Grant will have specific milestones to meet. By January 31, 2024, a reimbursement request form is due, and by March 31, 2024, a final report is due. An inspection must also be completed by April 30, ensuring accountability and the successful implementation of projects.
This initiative embodies the commitment of the Missouri Department of Agriculture to alleviate food insecurity and foster self-sufficiency. By supporting vital projects that empower communities and individuals to produce, access, and process food, the grant offers hope and nourishment to those in need.
Together, we can work towards a hunger-free Missouri, one community at a time.
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