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BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources is awarding over $200,000 in grants to help farmers markets grow and expand their outreach to consumers to enhance their marketing, promotion, consumer education, planning and infrastructure efforts according to a press release.
MDAR is awarding funding to 23 organizations representing 31 farmers markets through the Farmers Market Sustainability Grant Program.
“Farmers markets have been around for centuries and have embedded themselves into the fabric of our culture, heritage, and economy,” said MDAR Commissioner Ashley Randle.
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The institution of farmers markets in Massachusetts ensures that low-income families across the state have access to government funded programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Healthy Incentives Program (HIP), and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC). These federal programs ensure that families have access to fresh and local produce.
“The Healey-Driscoll Administration’s allocation of over $200,000 in grants to support our farmers markets is a testament to our dedication to the well-being of Massachusetts’ communities,” said State Senator Lydia Edwards (D – Boston). “This initiative not only bolsters the economic health of local farmers but also ensures universal access to fresh, locally sourced food, enhancing the connection between consumers and producers,” she added.
In the summer/fall of 2023, more than 220 farmers markets were in operation with 49 winter farmers markets opening over this past winter in Massachusetts.
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