Cargill OKs $13M in grants

MINNEAPOLIS, MN

Through a broad set of programs focused on the intersection of food security, sustainability and nutrition, Cargill is awarding more than $13 million in grants that will improve the lives of more than 1 million people in 15 countries around the world.

Farmers and government agencies in Brazil will be trained to promote land management and restoration efforts that benefit both food production and forest protection. Small-holder farmers in Honduras will help supply locally grown food to local schools. Kids at a Spanish and English dual-immersion school in St. Paul, MN, will grow their own produce and create recipe books with their parents.

'We're investing in scalable solutions that make a real difference for people and communities,' said Vice President of Corporate Affairs Ruth Rawling. 'The private sector can be a catalyst for lasting change by jumpstarting innovation and economic development.'

The grants approved by Cargill and the Cargill Foundation comprise more than 20 partners. The grantees span the gamut from global non-governmental organizations to locally based food and nutrition assistance programs. Specific plans related to the grants are being finalized, however areas of focus include: promoting sustainable agricultural practices; improving market access and productivity for farmers; supporting childhood nutrition and education and advancing healthy diets and preventing diet-related health issues in low-income communities.

Among the recipients are:CARE USA, The Nature Conservancy, Heifer International, Feeding America and Second Harvest Heartland.