W.Va. Dept. of Agriculture announces veteran’s grant program

The West Virginia Department of Agriculture has announced a request for applications for its 2022 Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture Grant Program, according to state Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt.

Leonhardt lauded the program as an ideal means to help emerging farmers build careers.

“As we continue to see the age of the farmer rise, we need to identify the next generation of those who will grow our food,” Leonhardt said.

“Active or retired veterans and emergency response personnel are the perfect groups to target as they often seek hands-on careers.”

Grant recipients have one year to plan, implement, and gather data on their respective projects. The total grant funding available is $24,000, and applications are due April 1, 2022.

The purpose of the program is to provide funding to organizations around the state who work directly with or provide support to law enforcement, firefighters, emergency medical service, first responders, veterans, active-duty military, and their spouses and family within an agricultural capacity.

The grant program provides an opportunity for organizations to develop and enhance programs and activities targeted at our veterans and heroes entering or currently working in agriculture to benefit their health and welfare, as well as the state’s agricultural economy.

The program also seeks to further promote the development of agricultural industries, products, and marketing opportunities across the state.

Applications can be found at Veterans & Heroes to Agriculture.

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