Linn County Now Accepting Grant Applications to Increase Food Security

The Linn County Food Systems Council is now accepting grant applications from local organizations for Round 2 of its Food Access, Resiliency, and Equity (FARE) Grant Program.

The FARE Grant Program is a Linn County American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funded project administered by the Linn County Food Systems Council to replace lost public sector revenue in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Application information is available on Linn County’s website at LinnCountyIowa.gov/FAREgrant. Completed applications are due Sept. 1st by 5 p.m. This is a competitive grant program.

On Friday, Aug. 4th, the FARE Grant Program Coordinator will host an application clinic for those interested in learning about the FARE Grant process, who need translation services, or have questions about their application. The workshop is being held at 6 p.m. at the NewBo City Market. Registration is required for the application clinic. Visit LinnCountyIowa.gov/FAREgrant to register under the Application Clinic header.

FARE grants will support food related businesses and nonprofit organizations in Linn County that continue to play a key role in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic; promote public health and wellness; and address systemic food-related challenges. Eligible entities include, but are not limited to farmers, processors, packagers, distributors, grocers, educators, administrators, social service agencies, nonprofits, food pantries, restaurants, food entrepreneurs, and food innovators.

For questions about the application, please contact the Planning & Development Department at 319-892-5141 or by email.