Senator Stabenow Announces Support for Mid-Michigan Farmers Markets and Local Food Initiatives

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, today announced $255,469 for four Mid-Michigan farmers markets and local food initiatives. The grants were awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Programs, which help expand access to farmers markets and food hubs and develop new opportunities for farmers to sell locally.

"When we grow things here and make things here, we create jobs here in Michigan," said Senator Stabenow. "Local food hubs and farmers markets connect families and small businesses with local farmers, which makes it easier to buy Michigan-grown fruits and vegetables. We all know buying local is a win for our economy. It's also a win for Michigan agriculture and consumers and these grants will help make that process easier across Michigan."

Support for the Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Programs was greatly expanded in the 2014 Farm Bill, which was authored by Senator Stabenow and signed into law by President Obama in Michigan last year. These grant programs help improve and expand farmers markets, roadside stands, community-supported agriculture programs, agri-tourism activities, and other direct producer-to-consumer marketing opportunities.

Project details below:

Greater Lansing Food Bank will receive $85,315 to pilot a "Veggie Box Program," which will help get fresh foods into workplaces and low-income neighborhoods.

Prima Civitas in East Lansing will receive $21,120 to evaluate the benefits of a new local food hub.

Bath Charter Township will receive $58,534 to increase the number of vendors at the Bath Farmers Market and encourage people to buy fresh and local produce.

Farmers Egg Cooperative in Charlotte will receive $90,500 to purchase specialized equipment to increase sales and develop new products.