The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC) is seeking information regarding fresh farm food donations for the hunger community from Southern Maryland farmers, churches, food banks and food pantries.
In 2014, the Maryland Hub and Spoke Task Force proposed a pilot program to enhance the distribution of fresh, locally grown foods to those in need in Southern Maryland (Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince George’s and St. Mary’s counties). A component of the proposal includes a tax credit for fresh farm produce equal to 50% of the wholesale value of the product donated (or 75% if organic). SMADC is gathering information for the bill which, if passed, could begin in 2015.
Farmers who regularly donate locally grown farm produce to a pantry or other organization serving the needy, and are willing to provide data in 2014, are encouraged to contact SMADC with the following information; where you currently donate produce, variety of product donated, approximate pounds of product donated, and frequency of your donations.
Additionally, information is sought from food distribution sites which receive and distribute locally grown farm produce donations for the needy; which farms donate produce to you, type of product donated, approximate pounds of product donated, and how frequently you receive donations.
Farmers and distributors are invited to call in their responses to Priscilla Wentworth, Food Programs Coordinator at (301) 274-1922, Ex. 1 or email to: pwentworth@smadc.com. To learn more about the Hub and Spoke initiative see the ‘Food, Farms & Nutrition’ page at www.smadc.com.
The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC) is committed to: a) a market-driven and sustainable farming future as Maryland transitions away from tobacco. b) a Maryland where farmland preservation, and environmental stewardship positively impact the quality of our air and water and c) cultivating awareness among consumers and leaders of the vital role our farms play in a balanced community, safe, nutritious food and a cleaner and healthier environment. To learn more about additional programs and resources, contact SMADC, P. O. Box 745, Hughesville, MD 20637; phone: 301-274-1922, Ex. 1, fax: 301-274-1924; email cbergmark@smadc.com; or visit www.smadc.com.