Farm Credit Awards $200,000 to Young, Beginning, and Small Farmers
Mechanicsburg, PA — Horizon Farm Credit recently awarded $200,000 through its Young, Beginning, and Small Farmer Grant Program, providing ten farmers with $20,000 grants to support on-farm improvements, innovation, and business growth. The grant program is part of Horizon Farm Credit's ongoing commitment to supporting young, beginning, and small farmers and strengthening agriculture throughout the communities it serves.
The following individuals were selected as recipients of the Young, Beginning, and Small Farmer Grant Program:
- Ashley Bowes of Blanchard, Pennsylvania
Nathaniel Denault of Davidsonville, Pennsylvania
Doug and Cherie Dickey of Corry, Pennsylvania
Justin and Stephanie Fulk of Knox, Pennsylvania
John and Jessica Gulatsi of Mount Jackson, Virginia
Blake de Kozlowski of Forest Hill, Maryland
Benjamin Lizardi of Middleburg, Pennsylvania
Stephen and Alisa Rickard of Honesdale, Pennsylvania
Jenna Rodriguez of Cape Charles, Virginia
Caleb and Shenley Schenk of Edinboro, Pennsylvania
Recipients were selected through a competitive review process based on their vision, business potential, and the impact of their proposed projects. The funded initiatives represent a variety of agricultural operations and will support improvements that contribute to the continued growth and sustainability of agriculture throughout the cooperative's footprint.
“Young, beginning, and small farmers are essential to the future of agriculture,” said Tom Truitt, Chief Executive Officer of Horizon Farm Credit. “These grants are investments in hardworking producers who are building businesses, creating opportunities in their communities, and helping ensure agriculture remains strong for generations to come. We're proud to support their success and celebrate the impact they are making.”
During the award ceremony, Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding recognized the recipients for their dedication to agriculture and the impact they are making within their communities. He emphasized the importance of encouraging and supporting young, beginning, and small farmers, noting that their success is vital to the long-term strength and sustainability of the agricultural industry.
To learn more about the Young, Beginning, and Small Farmer Grant Program, visit horizonfc.com/ybs.