Agenda Text
title
Requesting the acceptance of a grant of $39,946 from the MA Department of Agriculture for the Health & Human Services Department's Shape Up Program to expand the food production/distribution triangle.
body
Official Text
To the Honorable Board:
I respectfully request your acceptance of a Grant from the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture in the amount of $39,946.00.
These funds will be used to purchase a used van/truck to 1) ensure that the existing Food Production/Distribution Triangle does not succumb to transportation issues; 2) Expand the Triangle into a Network by adding 10 micro farms (75-150 sq. ft.) to production and five subsidized markets to distribution; 3) Train youth (including many who helped create the production side of the Triangle) to assist in the distribution part of the Network; 4) Increase visibility and sales for all subsidized markets by painting the van to be a marketing focal point; 5) Develop a scalable revenue stream to support the subsidized Mobile Markets by piloting a Chefs’ Market in which local chefs pay market rates to receive Somerville-grown produce along with positive publicity from Network partners.
In accordance with M.G.L., Chapter 44, Section 53A, which requires a vote of the Board of Alderman for the expenditure of grants, or gifts from the federal government and from charitable foundation, private corporation, or an individual, or from the Commonwealth, a County or Municipality or agency thereof, I request that you accept this grant for final approval.
Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
Respectfully Submitted,
Joseph A. Curtatone
Mayor