Two Oxford County organizations are getting a financial boost to help rescue more food and get it to people who need it.
Farm Credit Canada (FCC) has announced $1.5 million for 83 rural community projects across the country through its AgriSpirit Fund, including a combined $50,000 for projects in Ingersoll and Woodstock.
Cycles of Life for Supportive Transitional Living in Ingersoll is receiving $25,000 to install a second walk-in freezer. The added space will help the organization expand its ability to rescue, store and distribute food.
The Food Rescue Hub in Woodstock is also receiving $25,000. That funding will help establish a centralized food rescue and distribution hub, including transportation infrastructure needed to recover, store and redistribute surplus food.
FCC President and CEO Justine Hendricks says the fund supports people who recognize needs in their communities and take action.
Grants across Canada range from $10,000 to $25,000 and support projects involving food security, accessibility, recreation, emergency services, energy efficiency and community infrastructure.
Since launching in 2004, the AgriSpirit Fund has invested $25.5 million in 1,861 projects across rural and Indigenous communities with populations under 50,000.
The two Oxford County grants continue that investment locally while helping strengthen food security in both Ingersoll and Woodstock.
