WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 15, 2018) - U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) announced $435,000 in new federal funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Community Foods Project and Planning grant program to address food insecurity in New Mexico.
“Far too many New Mexicans facing food insecurity suffer from serious health issues, financial hardship, and endless anxiety -- about where the next meal will come from, and how to put food on the table for their families,” said Sen. Udall. “This funding will support seniors and families with children by expanding access to nutritious, locally-grown food for those facing hard times. I’m committed to ensuring that local organizations have the resources they need to help New Mexico families lead healthy lives, free from hunger and malnutrition.”
“I’m proud to support this critical funding to ensure New Mexicans experiencing hardship are able to put food on the table. I will continue fighting to advance policies that help every family in New Mexico eat healthy and nutritious food,” said Sen. Heinrich.
Presbyterian Healthcare Services in Albuquerque will be awarded $400,000 to connect elderly residents with local produce, nutritious meals, and support in preparing and enjoying healthy foods. Presbyterian will work with Three Sisters Kitchen, Encuentro, and Meals on Wheels Albuquerque to train 135 home health aides who will provide meal delivery to hundreds of low-income seniors.
More information on this award is available here.
The Regional Development Corporation will receive $35,000 to begin working with stakeholders and local government agencies in Rio Arriba County in a task force that will address gaps in the local food system. Although much of the land in the Rio Arriba is zoned for agricultural production, poverty and income inequality have led to high rates of childhood obesity, childhood hunger, and diabetes.
More information on this award is available here.