UPDATED WITH EXTENDED DEADLINE: The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted some critical stress points in our local food system. Farmers have reported labor issues, market closures and fears of supply chain disruption.

To bolster local food security and aid in the resilience and sustainability of local farms, the Adirondack North Country Association (ANCA) has announced a $100,000 Local Food Security Grant opportunity for farms in its 14-county service area.

The new program is accepting proposals from regional farmers until April 15. The grant funds are made possible by the same anonymous donors who supported the 2019 Local Farm Grant program, which awarded nearly $104,000 to eight regional farmers.

Awards between $2,500 and $25,000 are available to fund projects that enhance food and farm security in the region. Examples may include, but are not limited to, projects that support and expand supply chains, crop storage facilities, farmer subsidies so products can be offered to the public at reduced cost, and expansion of direct marketing options.

The Request for Proposals for the Local Food System Security Grant Program can be found on ANCA’s website. Proposals are due by midnight on Wednesday April 15. Questions about the RFP or the grant program can be directed to ANCA Local Food System Coordinator Adam Dewbury at adewbury@adirondack.org.