Steve McGrattan, First Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Agriculture and Markets | New York Department Of Agriculture and Markets
Steve McGrattan, First Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Agriculture and Markets | New York Department Of Agriculture and Markets
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball announced that organizations in New York can now apply for the FreshConnect CSA for SNAP program. This initiative aims to provide SNAP participants in New York with increased access to fresh produce from Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) by covering up to half the cost through subsidies, promoting local product purchase that supports New York’s farmers.
Commissioner Ball stated, "All New Yorkers deserve access to fresh, nutritious foods, grown right here in New York State. The FreshConnect CSA for SNAP program is a great example of connecting the dots between our farmers and our consumers, helping to ensure that New Yorkers using SNAP can access CSA shares full of delicious locally grown produce. This program feeds our families and supports our farmers, and I encourage eligible organizations to consider applying."
Eligible organizations include not-for-profits, Indian tribal organizations, educational institutions, and municipal governments. These entities can apply for funding that will subsidize part of the cost of weekly CSA shares sold to SNAP participants, keeping the food price to the consumer low while paying the farmer in full. Up to 50% of a share's cost purchased by a SNAP recipient may be covered.
The program offers $250,000 in funding through this request, with applications requesting between $25,000 and $50,000. Applications are due by July 22, 2025, at 3:00 pm, with awards given on a rolling basis until funds are depleted. A webinar detailing the program was previously held on March 18, 2025, with a recording available online.
The FreshConnect CSA for SNAP is part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s strategy to enhance New York’s agricultural demand and strengthen its food supply chain. This program is alongside other efforts like the FreshConnect Fresh2You initiative and Nourish New York, with more funding allocated in the 2025-26 budget to support these goals.
Governor Hochul has also proposed the Food and Fiber Small-Scale Processing Grant Program to help boost the diversity and supply of locally produced products. Additional plans include maintaining benefits from the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and expanding locally grown seafood supply.
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