Gov: $150K Earmarked For CitySeed to Expand Locally-Grown Food Access Through Coordinated Citywide Network

NEW HAVEN, CT —Gov. Ned Lamont today announced that his administration is releasing $1.55 million in state grants to 12 entities—including food pantries, community health centers, and nonprofits—for the purposes of purchasing healthy Connecticut Grown products from local farms for distribution to food-insecure populations.

Among those is New Haven's CitySeed, which will receive $150,000 to "connect Connecticut farmers to food pantries and community partners across New Haven, expanding access to fresh, locally grown food for low-income residents through a coordinated citywide network."

CitySeed's stated mission is to "engage the community in growing a local food system that promotes economic development, community development, and sustainable agriculture."

CitySeed operates a series of year-round Farmers Markets throughout New Haven: Wooster Square, Edgewood Park, Dixwell Q House, and Winter Market.

"Our markets provide a direct connection to more than 50 Connecticut vendors, including farms, nurseries, bakeries, cheese makers, and specialty food producers," CitySeed notes. "Our markets provide vital economic opportunities for regional farmers, helping to keep our local food system healthy and strong."

'Every family should have access to nutritious, locally grown food:' Lamont

The grants are being released through the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s Local Food Purchase Assistance Grant Program. The program aims to increase access to locally grown, healthy food for those in need while simultaneously supporting the operations of Connecticut farmers and the state’s overall agricultural economy.

Funded by the state, the program continues an initiative that had previously received federal support and serves as a crucial temporary measure following recent federal cuts.

"Every family should be able to access nutritious, locally grown food, and this program aims to eliminate barriers to healthy eating while also supporting Connecticut farmers and their operations," Lamont is quoted as saying. "This program was effective when it was supported by federal funding, and by releasing these state dollars, we can help ensure that it continues to function and that its mission can endure."

Eligible entities seeking grants under this funding round were required to submit applications to the Connecticut Department of Agriculture by March 11.

The grants are estimated to benefit approximately 60,000 Connecticut residents with distribution partners located statewide.

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