Governor Rendell Says PA's Fresh Food and Supermarket Initiative Winning U. S. Applause

GOVERNOR RENDELL SAYS PA'S FRESH FOOD AND SUPERMARKET INITIATIVE WINNING U.S. APPLAUSE

FRESH FOOD FINANCING INITIATIVE IMPROVES ACCESS TO QUALITY, NUTRITIOUS FOODS IN UNDERSERVED AREAS

Governor Edward G. Rendell said today the federal government has honored a Pennsylvania program that's designed to increase access to healthy foods in downtown neighborhoods and rural communities, and spark local economic growth.

The commonwealth's Fresh Foods Financing Initiative has won the Environmental Protection Agency's 2006 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement, which is given to public sector entities that, among other things, make investments to strengthen communities and promote balanced, regional development.

Since its inception in early 2004, 11 supermarkets have been funded throughout the state, generating investments of at least $46 million and creating or preserving more than 1,432 jobs.

"Over the last four years, we have worked hard each day to strengthen our cities and towns, promote economic development, and improve the quality of life for our residents," said Governor Rendell. "The Fresh Food Financing Initiative is just one way we're accomplishing this.

"By investing our resources in this innovative program, new supermarkets and grocery stores are opening in urban and rural communities - areas that are often underserved. More stores mean more job opportunities and better access to quality foods that encourage a more nutritious, healthy lifestyle."

Governor Rendell launched the Fresh Food Financing Initiative with support from the state's First Industries Fund, a vital component of his $2.8 billion economic stimulus package and a $150 million grant and loan program aimed at strengthening Pennsylvania's agriculture and tourism industries.

The initiative is the nation's first, state-level program aimed at attracting supermarket development in underserved rural and urban communities. It is designed to serve the financing needs of supermarket developers in communities where infrastructure costs and credit needs are not met by conventional financial institutions.

To help supermarkets and grocery stores move into underserved areas, the initiative analyzes market conditions, leverages capital, and encourages public policy to stimulate development.

The program is managed through a partnership between the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and three nonprofit organizations - The Food Trust, The Reinvestment Fund, and the Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition (GPUAC).

Pennsylvania has invested $30 million in the Fresh Food Financing Initiative, with matching funds from The Reinvestment Fund and other public and private sources. The Food Trust connects supermarket operators, developers, and communities with the available financial and technical resources, while GPUAC works to enhance contracting opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses.

The initiative was also nominated in March of this year for Harvard University's 2006 Innovations in American Government Award. The program was among the top 50 finalists nationally.

"The Fresh Food Financing Initiative is indicative of Governor Rendell's approach to improving Pennsylvania's economy and the quality of life for its 12.4 million residents," DCED Secretary Dennis Yablonsky said. "Since taking office, the Governor has focused on developing innovative solutions that deliver results. Programs like this protect our most vulnerable, create new opportunities for our working men and women and their families, and infuse our economy with new investments."

Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff added that in addition to expanded access to healthy foods, the program also benefits the state's farmers and rural economy.

"Agriculture is our state's largest industry and the hard work of Pennsylvania's farm families ensures a wealth of healthy, fresh foods," said Wolff. "Through innovative programs like the Fresh Foods Financing Initiative, the best of Pennsylvania's foods are becoming more accessible, promoting good health and new markets for our farmers."

http://www.state.pa.us/papower/cwp/view.asp?A=11&Q=458069