DHCD launches NourishMD grants to combat food insecurity

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As part of an effort to address challenges resulting from food insecurity in communities across the state, the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has established the NourishMD Grant Program.

Offered by DHCD’s Division of Business Development, the program will provide grants to support the development, stabilization and expansion of retail outlets that supply fresh food in Maryland’s food deserts, a release says.

According to DHCD, the $2 million grant program will provide eligible food retailers with grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000 for facility upgrades, infrastructure and technology needs, and equipment purchases.

DHCD Secretary Jake Day announced Tuesday that applications are open for the NourishMD program. 

“Marylanders’ access to healthy food should never depend on their ZIP code or neighborhood. Food deserts are a result of long-standing inequity and disinvestment that limits opportunity and dignity for too many Marylanders,” Day said. 

“By investing in the expansion of fresh food access and community-based solutions, we can help more Maryland families and communities thrive.”

All eligibility criteria, program priorities and application requirements are available on the program’s website. The application period runs from Jan. 20 to Feb. 20.

In terms of grant awards, priority will be given to businesses that accept federal nutrition benefits, according to DHCD. To support this effort, the agency entered a co-awarding partnership with the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Maryland Market Money Program. 

“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to farmers, small food businesses, and the communities they serve,” Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks said. 

“By investing in technology and infrastructure, we are strengthening market viability, supporting farmer income, and expanding equitable access to healthy food across Maryland.”