New Bedford’s Fishing Industry and Food Banks Get $1.8 Million Boost

Senator Mark Montigny has announced more than $1.8 Million dollars to support SouthCoast food and New Bedford fishing.

Boost for Local Seafood and Fresh Food Access

New Bedford’s seafood industry and community food programs are getting a big boost, thanks to new state grants announced by Sen. Montigny (D-New Bedford).

More than $1.8 million in Food Security Infrastructure Grants (FSIG) will go to 11 local businesses and nonprofits. The goal is to help get more fresh, locally-produced food such as our homegrown seafood, fruits and vegetables onto tables across the SouthCoast.

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Helping Families and Strengthening Local Food Systems

The FSIG program was launched during the pandemic, when food supplies across the country were struggling. The state has continued the program to make sure families in Massachusetts can get healthy food while supporting local farmers and fishermen.

Senator Montigny said it’s a true win-win.

“Too many families still struggle to keep healthy food on the table,” he said. “By investing in our local seafood industry and community groups, we can make sure people have steady access to fresh, nutritious food.”

SouthCoast families and business will each benefit from this grant.

Local Organizations Receiving Grants

Here’s a list of the local SouthCoast businesses and nonprofits that will receive funding:
Alexander Kalife (Fairhaven); Benthic Fishing Corp.; Coastal Foodshed; Deep Ocean LLC; Integrity Fishing Co.; Martha Rose Fisheries; Mass Fishing Corp dba F/V Miss Leslie; PACE Inc.; Round the Bend Farm (South Dartmouth); W Trading Inc.; and Walsh Seafoods Inc.

The program is run by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources and focuses on improving food production, distribution, and community access to local products.