USDA, Reinvestment Fund program to increase healthy food access in underserved communities

MORGANTOWN, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Ryan Thorn, U.S Department of Agriculture Rural Development West Virginia State Director, recently announced that Reinvestment Fund will team with USDA to launch the application window for the Food Access and Retail Expansion program.

Launched as part of the Healthy Food Financing Initiative, the program was first announced by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and will support food enterprises and food retail working to increase healthy food access in community areas which have been underserved.

“Having access to fresh, healthy food shouldn’t depend on where you live,” Thorn said. “This program helps increase access to healthy foods, opens new market opportunities for West Virginia farmers, stabilizes small and independent retailers, and creates good-paying jobs and economic opportunity in underserved rural communities.”

$60 million of funding will be made available through grants, loans, and technical assistance for food retail and food enterprise supply chain projects.

Those interested in applying are required to submit a funding inquiry form to Reinvestment Fund, and inquiries will be accepted on a rolling basis along with loan and technical assistance. Inquiry forms must be received by Monday, October 14, 2024, from those looking to be considered for the first round of funding.

Organizations will projects deemed eligible will be invited to apply for funding which will go toward the implementation of healthy food projects. Available funding will include grants up to $250,000 in support of equipment purchases, project management, and/or construction, as well as loans ranging from $500,000 to $5 million in support of land acquisition, predevelopment, renovations, and/or equipment purchases.

Available funding will also include financing to go toward technical assistance in support of market and feasibility studies, store design, and business planning for projects in beginning stages.

Those seeking further information on the program and those interested in submitting applications or determining whether they qualify for funding are urged to visit the America’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative website .