WMass ‘Buy Local’ groups recieve state grants

Source: Masslive.com

By Shira Schoenberg | sschoenberg@repub.com
on December 24, 2015 at 12:55 PM, updated December 24, 2015 at 1:00 PM

Programs to help people buy local produce in Western Massachusetts have received new state grants.

“The Buy Local program ensures that Massachusetts residents have access to nutritious, locally grown products, and provides opportunities for continued economic and agricultural development throughout the Commonwealth,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton in a statement.

Buy Local organizations, which exist throughout the state, market local farm goods in ways that are tailored to meet the needs of a particular geographic region.

The Baker administration announced Wednesday that it was distributing $300,000 to Buy Local organizations across the state.

Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture, which helps food producers in Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties, received $59,250 for a new marketing campaign.

Berkshire Grown, which deals with Berkshire County, received $27,000 to provide business assistance to food producers to increase the amount of land being farmed and the number of farmers on the land.

State Representative Paul Mark, D-Peru, said in a statement, “Buy Local organizations like Berkshire Grown and CISA consistently support local farmers, producers, and consumers in a sustainable, locally focused manner and these grants will be very beneficial to helping along those worthwhile efforts.”