News Release

USDA and Reinvestment Fund Launch New Program to Increase Access to Healthy Foods in Underserved Communities

Funding is Part of the Healthy Food Financing Initiative and Made Possible by President Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act

MONTGOMERY, Ala., June 24, 2024 – At the National Rural Grocer’s Summit today, U.S.Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that USDA and Reinvestment Fund are launching a new program under the Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) to increase access to healthy foods in communities underserved by grocery stores. Funding for the new Food Access and Retail Expansion Fund (FARE Fund) is made possible by President Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act.

“People across this country deserve fresh, healthy and affordable foods,” Secretary Vilsack said. “Through this program, the Biden-Harris Administration is partnering with food retailers to ensure that everyone has access to affordable, delicious foods while also supporting local farmers and ranchers. We are revitalizing the food systems in this country and increasing access for those that need it.”

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