WASHINGTON, D.C. (AVC News) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture is making $7.5 million in grants available to expand cold storage capacity and improve access to fresh and minimally processed foods for families in need.
The funding is available through the Cold Chain Grants for Emergency Food Assistance Program, which supports investments in equipment used to temporarily store, package and distribute fresh, frozen and minimally processed foods.
Nonprofit organizations receiving the grants will administer competitive subgrant programs to support cold storage within food assistance operations.
Subgrants can cover the cost of cold chain equipment, along with documented delivery, installation and necessary related equipment and supplies, up to $200,000. Sub-awardees will be required to provide a 10% cash match.
USDA said the program is intended to help food assistance organizations distribute more meat, eggs, dairy products, produce and other foods from American farmers and ranchers.
The program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Oct. 1.
More information about eligibility and the application process is available through the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service Cold Chain Grants for Emergency Food Assistance program.
Last Updated on August 18, 2026 by AVC News
