Burns encourages nonprofits to apply for state grant program on food security

EBENSBURG, Feb. 6 – According to Rep. Frank Burns, food pantries are a valuable part of our community as they ensure food security to people in need. That’s why he is urging nonprofit organizations, specifically food pantries, to apply for the state Food Recovery Infrastructure Grant program.

“Food pantries are in desperate need of help,” said Burns, D-Cambria, who also plans to hold a nonperishable food drive in April. “I recognize the need, and grants like these are critical to our food pantries’ efforts to continue serving families in need in our community.”

Eligible organizations who apply will have the opportunity to be awarded up to $50,000 to aid in proper management and operation of food to reduce waste. This program will help with the costs of equipment necessary to prepare, transport and store food items acquired from retailers/wholesalers, grocery stores, agriculture organizations, farms and cooperatives in the Commonwealth.

Applicants are required to have a pre-application meeting with the department’s regional planning and recycling coordinator prior to submission. More information on eligibility and application requirements can be found on the Department of Environmental Protection’s website.

Organizations can apply for the grant through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Electronic Single Application website. Applications will only be accepted through the website; applicants who submit paper or faxed copies will not be considered. The deadline to apply for funding is March 17.

Find more opportunities for grant funding on Rep. Frank Burns’ website.