Gov. Deval Patrick on Tuesday announced $300,000 in funding for seven “buy local” groups, including two in Central Massachusetts, in an effort to boost Bay State agriculture.
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs said regional “buy local” groups connect farmers with their communities, and are committed to promoting locally grown food sources to promote health and economic development.
Local funding recipients include the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission (CMRPC) of Worcester and the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) of Fitchburg, which will receive $60,000 to found Central Mass Grown, a “buy local” group that will build business relationships among farmers, consumers and area organizations. The two organizations will also use the money to promote locally-grown farm products.
“The Patrick Administration is thrilled to support these organizations and (is) looking forward to the Central Massachusetts region benefitting from the ‘buy local’ movement,” Department of Agriculture Commissioner Greg Watson said in a statement.
