Fresh from the Farm Program to award 10 mini grants

​BAINBRIDGE – Health experts, trending chefs and Joanna Gaines fans alike are helping push the farmhouse, farm to table, farm stand, and micro-farming cultures to a whole new level. And we dig it (pun intended)! Taking a closer look at current trends, the source of all the hype stems from a new found appreciation of our food and sustainability. The transparency of the sourcing local ingredients movement is also about gaining the consumer’s trust. People want to know the origins of their food and that includes looking for locally grown produce in their communities. Like shopping local, they want to eat local. 

Southwest Georgia Farm Credit began the Fresh from the Farm Mini-Grant program nine years ago. Our goal is to recognize our regional producers and their contributions to our healthier lifestyles. This grant is just another way for Southwest Georgia Farm Credit to partner with, promote and support local farmers. 

Tyler Thomas, chef and owner of The American restaurant in Bainbridge says, "We source a large portion of our products from local farmers. We strive to purchase many of our products from smaller family owned farms because we can tangibly see the positive impact it has on their business, our business, and our community as a whole. By supporting our local farmers, we are supporting our neighbors and the money invested in them is truly invested locally in our region. We've seen new jobs, expansion of these businesses, and strong relationships forged by partnering with local farmers. The products are generally harvested and delivered to our door within a day or two which makes them fresher and more vibrant in flavor." 

The Fresh from the Farm initiative gives ten grants each year to farmers who own qualifying produce stands. The program provides cash for grant recipients to enhance their marketing and promotions, like buying ads or developing a website and social media presence. 

Fresh from the Farm applications can be downloaded from our website: www.swgafarmcredit.com 

Completed applications can be submitted via MAIL: Southwest Georgia Farm Credit, Attention: Fresh from the Farm, 305 Colquitt Highway, Bainbridge, GA 39817 or EMAIL: akinchen@swgafarmcredit.com 

The deadline for submitting applications is April 13, 2021.