Town of Glastonbury Launches Grant Program for Local Farms in Connecticut

The Town of Glastonbury has established the 2024 Farm Assistance Program (FAP) to provide crucial financial assistance to local farmers. This reimbursable grant program aims to support eligible farmers who faced negative impacts from significant weather events in 2023. The program also encourages investments in the long-term viability of farm businesses within the town. The Glastonbury Town Council has allocated $220,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for this initiative, demonstrating a commitment to supporting the local agricultural community and fostering resilience against future challenges. The target beneficiaries of the FAP are eligible farm businesses within Glastonbury, CT. To qualify, farms must be current on property taxes, actively farm at least 10 acres of land in Glastonbury, be registered in the PA490 program, and gross at least $100,000 per year based on the total average gross of their three best years over the last five. Crucially, they must also have sustained a financial hardship due to the 2023 weather. The impact goals are to help these farmers overcome financial hardships caused by weather events and to enable them to make investments that will ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of their operations. The program prioritizes reimbursement for a range of essential expenses designed to address immediate needs and promote future stability. These eligible expenses include payroll, recruitment, training, rent or mortgage assistance, utilities, and other operational costs. Furthermore, the FAP encourages investments in equipment, technology, capital improvements, and marketing programs, all aimed at supporting farm business growth and improving overall viability. This comprehensive approach reflects a strategic priority to not only provide relief but also to empower farmers to adapt and thrive. The expected outcomes of the Farm Assistance Program include a reduction in financial strain for Glastonbury's farming community, increased operational stability, and improved long-term resilience against environmental and economic pressures. By providing up to $10,000 in reimbursement grants, the Town of Glastonbury aims to foster a stronger agricultural sector, contributing to local food security and economic vitality. The measurable results will be evident in the successful reimbursement of eligible expenses, the continued operation and growth of participating farm businesses, and the overall strengthening of the farming landscape in Glastonbury following the 2023 weather events.