DELAWARE - The Delaware Division of Small Business presented grants to 22 businesses as a part of the Delaware Grocery Initiative.
The program targets food deserts in the state or areas at risk of becoming food deserts. The awards, also known as First State Food System grants, aim to expand access to healthy foods in these areas.
Delaware Grocery Initiative was created in 2022 under Senate Bill 254, sponsored by Senator Darius Brown. The council has since provided over $1.9 million in grants since its implementation.
“Access to nutritious food is essential for living a long and healthy life," said Brown. "This program ensures that critical component of personal health is a reality for all Delawareans, regardless of their tax bracket or the neighborhood they live in."
Several local businesses were recipients of this funding, including Farmacy Market in Milford, G's DElights in Lewes and Sussex County Kitchen Incubator.
This year, a total of $25,000 was available to give out. The Division of Small Business said funds will support expanding supply chain capacity to build resilience in Delaware's food system.