WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) announced the Alcona Local Foods Association has received a $77,943 grant to support growers and vendors of local produce and promote an awareness of nutrition and health issues in Alcona County.  The funding was awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as part of the Farmers Market Promotion Program.

“This funding will help improve community health by providing increased access to nutritious foods while also increasing the economic benefits to area farmers that grow and sell their produce,” Stupak said.  “This program will help both consumers and producers in Alcona County.  I am pleased the USDA continues to invest in the health and wellbeing of residents in Northern Michigan.”

The grant will be used to promote and support existing and new farmers and vendors by increasing consumer education, the income of local growers, and the awareness of nutrition and health issues for all county residents.  The funding will also be used to develop a cooperative hoop house that will allow local vendors to lengthen their growing season.

The USDA Farmers Market Promotion Program is part of the ‘Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food’ initiative.  The goals of the program are to promote local and regional food systems that help boost local economies, eliminate child hunger, and increase access to fresh produce in low-income neighborhoods helping to improve community health and nutrition.

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