Two local groups have been awarded more than $3 million to support low-income Western New Yorkers’ nutrition.

The money will help Feedmore Western New York and the Field & Fork Network.

“FeedMore WNY is thrilled to partner with Field & Fork Network to introduce the Double Up Food Bucks Program at the FeedMore WNY Farm Market,” Tara A. Ellis, president and CEO of FeedMore WNY, said. “Our Farm Market trucks provide fresh and extremely affordable produce to community members who may otherwise lack access to fruits and vegetables. Thanks to the Double Up Food Bucks Program, made possible through Field & Fork, and the efforts of Congressman Higgins, our Farm Market shoppers can make their SNAP benefits go farther and multiply their families’ healthy produce options.”

The funding come from the U.S. Department of Agriculture through the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Program.

“By design, the Double Up Food Bucks program is an innovative way to address food insecurity in our communities by making fresh produce not only more accessible but also more affordable,” stated Lisa French, executive director of Field & Fork Network. “SNAP shoppers can stretch their food dollars further with the Double Up match, bringing home more healthy food for themselves and their families. We are grateful for the ongoing investment the USDA National Institute of Food & Agriculture has made in our program. These federal resources are critical and ensure we can implement the program in those communities that need it the most.”

The money will fuel their efforts to increase the amount of fresh produce available for at-risk communities and low-income families in urban, suburban and rural areas.

“Too many families live in food deserts or find the cost of fresh fruits and vegetables unaffordable on a tight budget,” Rep. Brian Higgins said. “This federal investment ensures that families have affordable access to produce, along with the flexibility to purchase healthy food at a variety of community grocers. Beyond addressing immediate needs related to food insecurity, this initiative has lasting benefits which will over time improve health and education outcomes for families in underserved communities.”

The Gus Schumacher Nutrition Program in intended to expand 45 counties in New York state by 2024.