BOSTON – Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy, along with Congressman John Olver today announced that two Massachusetts communities will receive federal funding to help promote farmers markets. The funding was directed as part of the newly signed Farm Bill.

Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture, Inc (CISA) of South Deerfield will receive $56,989 and Nuestras Raices of Holyoke will receive $70,818. Both organizations are working to strengthen the connection between farmers and their communities, particularly between different ethnic communities and urban and rural communities.

“Farmers in Massachusetts lead the country in direct sales. Our farmers’ markets are flourishing with 21 markets in Western Mass alone. But consumer demographics are changing. Ethnic consumers are an untapped population looking for fresh, local and affordable food. Farmers can potentially increase market share if they grow new crops for this demographic, and if they develop marketing materials in numerous languages,” said Senator Kerry. “I commend both CISA and Nuestras Raices for their efforts to sustain local farms and provide everyone with the opportunity to enjoy what our local farmers markets have to offer.”

Melissa Wagoner, spokeswoman for Senator Edward M. Kennedy, said “This is significant assistance for these important farming communities in our Commonwealth, as well as for the large number of citizens who will enjoy the products of these farms. Senator Kennedy is proud of these farmers, and commends them for their important contributions to our people and our communities.”

“These are top notch organizations, and this funding will enable them to deliver two very important benefits. Not only will it help more people access fresh, locally produced items, it will also help our farmers stay economically viable in an increasingly difficult global economy,” said Congressman Olver.

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