CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) has announced Request for Applications for FY22 Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture Grant Program (VHAGP). Grant recipients have one year to plan, implement and gather data on their respective projects. The total grant funding available is $24,000. Applications are due April 1, 2022.

“As we continue to see the age of the farmer rise, we need to identify the next generation of those who will grow our food. Active or retired veterans and emergency response personnel are the perfect group to target as they often seek hands-on careers,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt. “We hope to provide some support to those organizations who seek to help these groups through agriculture.”

The purpose of the VHAGP is to provide funding to organizations around the state who work directly with or provide support to law enforcement, fire fighters, emergency medical service, first responders, veterans, active-duty military and/or their spouses and family within an agricultural capacity. The grant program provides an opportunity for organizations to develop and enhance programs and activities targeted at our veterans and heroes entering or currently working in agriculture to benefit their health and welfare, as well as the state’s agricultural economy. The program also seeks to further promote the development of agricultural industries, products, and marketing opportunities across the state.

Applications can be found at Veterans & Heroes to Agriculture : West Virginia Department of Agriculture

For more information, contact Crescent Gallagher at cgallagher@wvda.us or 304-558-3708.

The West Virginia Department of Agriculture protects plant, animal and human health through a variety of scientific, regulatory and consumer protection programs. The Commissioner of Agriculture is one of six statewide elected officials who sits on the Board of Public Works.