WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) announces the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded more than $184,000 to Northeast Ohio food producers and farmers markets.  Famicos Foundation (Famicos) received $100,000, North Union Market (North Union) received $59,302, and Hattie Larlham Community Services (Hattie Larlham) Services received $25,000.

 

“I applaud the USDA for recognizing the need for more access to healthy foods in Ohio,” said Congresswoman Fudge. “These grants make it easier for Ohioans to choose better food options by supporting locally-grown produce.”

 

The awards were distributed through two separate USDA grants aimed at strengthening local food systems and improving the health of all Americans.  Famicos will use the funding to open a new East Side Market in the City of Cleveland; Hattie Larlham will develop, design and implement a new mobile market; and North Union will work to improve outreach and services for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients.

 

As a Member of the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, Congresswoman Fudge is committed to supporting the agriculture community, combatting food insecurity, and increasing the availability of nutritious, affordable foods.  Congresswoman Fudge sent letters of support for each of the northeast Ohio grant awardees.

 

“Farmers markets are essential to our local economy. They create jobs and training programs, revitalize neighborhoods, and provide vital resources to those in need,” said Congresswoman Fudge. “I applaud the Famicos Foundation, Hattie Larlham Community Services, and North Union Market for their efforts and will continue to work with them to improve the lives of all residents in the 11th Congressional District.”

 

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