PRO*ACT Distributor Network Funds $90,000 in Local Grants through Cultivating Change
PRO*ACT Distributor Network Funds $90,000 in Local Grants through Cultivating Change
MONTEREY, CA – In efforts to give back to the local farmers who play a crucial role in our industry’s supply chain, PRO*ACT’s sustainability program Greener Fields Together™ has awarded $90,000 through its grant program Cultivating Change.
Max Yeater, President and CEO, PRO*ACT“We are proud to give back to farms that make such a large contribution to their local community,” stated Max Yeater, PRO*ACT President and CEO. “The Cultivating Change grants give these local farmers an opportunity to fund projects that will allow them to invest in their current and future operations. Through these improvements they are paving a way for the next generation of farmers.”
Cultivating Change is a local farm grant program that was created by Greener Fields Together. According to a press release, the donations are funded by PRO*ACT’s distributor network in order to improve local farmers’ ability to grow, market, and distribute safe and sustainable produce.
Throughout the U.S., 16 local farms were selected to receive grants through Cultivating Change which is now in its second year. Ranging from grant totals of $3,000 to $10,000, a total of $90,000 has been awarded through the program. The winners are as follows:
- Bella Verdi Farms: Rainwater Collection System Expansion, $10,000
- Fable: From Farm to Table: Cold Storage and Packing Rooms, $10,000
- R. Potano Produce: Greenhouse/Hydroponic System, $10,000
- Working Landscapes: Bringing Chopped Greens from Farm to School, $10,000
- Daniels Produce: USDA Kitchen for Processed Local Foods, $5,000
- MicroFarms: Expansion Project, $5,000
- Barberry Hill Farms: Walk-In Refrigerator Installation, $5,000
- J&C Farms & Groves: Large Seed Bank Project, $5,000
- Jaemor Farms: Homegrown Produce Box, $5,000
- Poche Family Farm: Sustainable Produce Containers, $5,000
- Cul2vate: Greenhouse Installation, $5,000
- Dawson's Orchards: Transition to Plastic Bins, $3,000
- Fullei Fresh: Cleanliness Verification, $3,000
- M&M Farms: Tractor Upgrade, $3,000
- Coveyou Scenic Farm: Organic Produce Geothermal Walk in Cooler/Greens Processing, $3,000
The winners were decided by a panel of industry professionals including Rick Bayless, Dana Cowin, José Andrés, and other engaged stakeholders, in addition to a popular vote.
Applications for the next round of awards will open for acceptance between September 1 and October 31 of this year. Find more information on this year’s winners and application guidelines here.
