September 20, 2022
Washington, DC – Today, US Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $1,061,671 from the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) in support of farmers and ranchers in West Virginia and ensuring that every West Virginian has access to quality, affordable fresh produce. Funding is provided by the NIFA Organic Transitions Program (ORG) and NIFA American rescue plan Produce Prescription Program (PPR) and will support research on organic farming practices at West Virginia University (WVU) and the Fresh Choice Prescription Produce program at Williamson Health and Wellness Center.
“Every West Virginian should have access to healthy, affordable food. I am pleased that the USDA is investing in WVU and the Williamson Health and Wellness Center to support our local farmers and ranchers, strengthen our agribusiness, and provide food assistance to those in need in West Virginia.” said Senator Manchin. “Tackling food insecurity remains one of my top priorities and I look forward to seeing the positive impact of this funding. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to champion resources to support our farmers and ensure all West Virginians have access to nutritious, wholesome food.”
Individual awards listed below:
- $749,999– West Virginia University
- The ORG provides funds to support farmers and ranchers who grow and market high quality organic food and other products to further improve organic practices, increase food security and improve market competitiveness. The funding announced today will help evaluate three manure management strategies: cow manure, dry-stored cow manure and composted cow manure and their impact on weeds, pathogens, insect pests, yield and profitability.
- $311,672 – Williamson Health and Wellness Center
- The PPR provides funding for projects that demonstrate and assess the impact of eating fresh fruit and vegetables. The program aims to increase fruit and vegetable consumption, reduce food insecurity and reduce consumption and healthcare costs. The funding announced today will support the Fresh Choice Prescription Produce program at Williamson Health and Wellness Center, which provides adult patients who are eligible for Medicaid or SNAP and are at risk of, or have been diagnosed with, heart disease or diabetes. fruit and vegetables available. This funding will also promote healthy eating habits and nutrition classes.
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