Massachusetts lawmakers are beginning to debate how to best invest billions of dollars from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). They need to hear from YOU about the importance of supporting a resilient local food system.
Last year, the Food Security Infrastructure Grant (FSIG) program received more than $200 million in requests for funding from farms, fisheries, schools, pantries, and other important food supply chain businesses and organizations. But the program was only able to provide $36 million in grants. For those who received grants, the impact was transformative, as illustrated in some profiles the Collaborative has published. The program works, and more support is needed.
We are urging the legislature and administration to commit $30 million of the ARPA funds to renew FSIG to support local food system resilience.
Lawmakers are beginning to meet with legislative leaders NOW to make the case for their priorities for spending ARPA funds. Please call and email your legislators to tell them how important FSIG is to your business and your community. Tell them your story, and direct them to our page about the value of this program.
Massachusetts’ local food system is under increasing pressure from global markets, climate change, and other external challenges. There are not many resources available to support the infrastructure needed to keep local producers and supply chains sustainable. Renewing FSIG is essential.
For more information about FSIG, see this report developed by the Collaborative, with feedback from local food system stakeholders, about the first round of the program and how it might be improved once it is renewed.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
