Councilwoman Lastry urges application for $1,500 Healthy Choices mini grant

Councilwoman Lastry described a Healthy Choices mini grant funded by the Department of Job and Family Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, saying it provides one-time support for programs that make healthy choices easier in places where residents live and gather. "It is a small grant. It's only about $1,500 is the max," she said, and asked the administration and legislative body to consider applying for local food pantries and community gardens.

She listed eligible settings that serve SNAP-eligible populations: food pantries, farmers markets, early childhood centers, K–12 schools and community gardens. Lastry said she has already presented the opportunity to other legislators and city administrators and is hopeful the city will pursue the application.