Press Releases

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) today announced a $600,000 grant awarded through the American Rescue Plan to support underserved Maine farmers and foresters. The Cumberland County Food Service Security Council’s (CCFSC) project aims to assist Afro indigenous, Black, and other limited resource producers in owning and operating agricultural enterprises. In June, Pingree wrote in support of CCFSC’s funding proposal. 

“With support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the historic American Rescue Plan funding, the Cumberland County Food Service Security Council and Maine community livestock producers are taking innovative steps to strengthen Maine agriculture. This project will increase the presence of fresh, local, and culturally appropriate food in communities with limited access, and elevate the voices of people from marginalized communities to develop a healthier and more accessible meat system,” said Pingree. “As a longtime organic farmer, I understand the challenges of sustainable livestock husbandry, and there is a critical need for policies and programs that increase access to sustainable food and reduce hunger. The work being done by the CCFSC to further these goals is essential. I’m thrilled this project was selected am grateful for the leadership CCFSC and the Ummah Farm Food Hub are providing in coordinating these efforts. This investment of federal dollars will have a significant, positive impact in strengthening our local meat system.”

The USDA today announced a more than $71 million investment to help underserved farmers and producers in underserved communities across the U.S. Funding is made possible through two key USDA programs: USDA’s 2501 Program and the American Rescue Plan Technical Assistance Investment Program.

This week, Pingree welcomed USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to Maine to highlight the state’s successful and nation-leading Free School Meals Program. On the trip, Pingree and Vilsack also met with local organic farmers to discuss challenges they are facing and opportunities for federal support. 

Pingree, who serves on both the House Agriculture Committee and the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, strongly supported and helped pass the American Rescue Plan. 

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