Fresh MARTA Markets Gets Grant to Improve Access to Produce

Fresh food access is a problem for millions of people worldwide, and it is something that prompts addressing. Fresh MARTA Markets is doing just this with a grant to increase fresh food and vegetable offerings in the company’s new markets all across Metro Atlanta. This grant of more than $850,000 was given by the U.S. Department of Agriculture,

“MARTA appreciates the support of Senator Raphael Warnock and the Senate Agriculture Committee in helping secure this grant that ensures everyone has access to fresh, affordable produce. That small-and-medium-sized farms in Georgia have equal opportunity to sell their products and support the local economy,” said MARTA General Manager and CEO Jeffrey Parker.

Looking for similar grants? GrantWatch has a category specifically for nutrition-related grants, as well as one for community services. Many of these grants provide funding that goes toward alleviating hunger and food insecurity.

Fresh MARTA Markets and More Fruits and Vegetables in Atlanta

Specifically, this grant will expand fresh fruit access across DeKalb County. MARTA currently operates markets in several areas including:

• West End
• H.E. Holmes
• Bankhead
• College Park
• and Five Points rail stations in the cities of Atlanta and College Park

The MARTA fresh markets began in 2015 as a way for local growers in Georgia to be able to sell their products while also expanding access to fresh fruits and vegetables in food deserts. Food deserts are areas where there is limited or no access to fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and other healthy food for residents of those areas.

Five Other Grants to Increase Access to Food for More People

1. Firstly, there are grants to U.S. nonprofit organizations for programs to encourage nutritious eating and reduce food insecurity. Focus areas include nutrition, food safety. and hunger. The goal of the grant program is to improve availability and access to healthier food and to build people’s confidence to select, prepare, and serve healthier food.
2. Grants to U.S., Canada, and International nonprofits and individuals for projects to promote a plant-based diet and lifestyle for the general public. Specifically, funding is for public events and activities that will help create a more healthy and compassionate world. Eligible activities encourage the public to adopt a vegan diet and outlook.
3. There are also grants to U.S. nonprofits for community-based programs related to food and nutrition. Focus areas include food access, nutrition education, cooking skills, healthy and active lifestyles, and select urban agricultural programs that have a clear community focus and develop entrepreneurial skills to help individuals participate in the farm-to-fork economy.
4. In addition, there are opportunities for U.S. nonprofits and faith-based organizations to receive donated food and other essential items to distribute within the community. Applicants must have secure storage and distribution areas to ensure the integrity of donated items. For example, organizations must take steps to ensure that products are not diverted.
5. Finally, there are grants to U.S. youth leaders for projects to address hunger for children and youth. Funding is to support community service initiatives and fundraising projects. The goal of the program is to actualize young people’s ideas related to childhood hunger prevention.

GrantNews Notes

So many nonprofits are doing hard work to try and help individuals and families who are struggling. Remember this holiday season that it’s important to give back as well. Donate some canned goods to your local food bank. Volunteer at an organization doing amazing work in your community and also make sure to shout out any organization or individuals doing important work on social media!

Also, right around the holidays, give your organization the gift of GrantWatch. Paid subscribers can gain access to resources and tools to help grant seekers succeed.