ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico food banks and hunger relief organizations could benefit from a new $7.5 million federal grant program designed to expand cold storage capacity and increase access to fresh foods.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced funding through its Cold Chain Grants for Emergency Food Assistance Program, which will support investments in refrigeration, freezer units, and other equipment needed to safely store and distribute perishable food.
For New Mexico, where many rural communities face long transportation distances and limited access to fresh food, the funding could help local organizations improve the distribution of products such as fresh produce, dairy items, meat, and eggs.
Under the program, nonprofit organizations nationwide will compete for grant funding and then administer subawards to local food assistance providers. Individual projects can receive up to $200,000 for cold chain equipment, delivery, installation, and related expenses.
USDA officials say the goal is to increase access to nutritious food while helping food banks, pantries, and other assistance programs handle larger quantities of fresh and frozen products.
The funding is expected to support organizations working throughout New Mexico, including those serving rural and underserved areas where food distribution can be especially challenging.
Federal officials say the program is intended to strengthen the food assistance network while creating more opportunities for food produced by American farmers and ranchers to reach families in need.
The grant program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
