The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has awarded $2.5 million to 51 statewide organizations through its Urban Farms and Community Gardens Grant Program. The funding aims to expand local gardens, upgrade infrastructure, and launch new educational programs centered on strengthening local food systems.
“These growing spaces are integral to a strong, reliable food supply,” said State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball, who praised the project for connecting communities to agriculture and bolstering local food security.
Since its launch, the program has invested over $4.3 million in nearly 110 community farming initiatives.
Grant recipients span every region of the state, including groups such as the New York Botanical Garden, Capital Roots, Foodlink, and Providence Farm Collective.
