The FreshConnect CSA for SNAP Program 2025, managed by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, is designed to increase access to fresh, locally grown foods for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants. The program achieves this by subsidizing the cost of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares, connecting SNAP recipients directly with New York State farmers and supporting local food systems.

Through this grant opportunity, eligible organizations can apply for funds to partially subsidize the purchase of CSA shares by SNAP recipients. The program promotes both traditional and modern CSA models, including food box programs, and requires that supported CSA shares be comprised of SNAP-eligible food products from New York State producers. The overarching objectives include expanding access to fresh food, supporting New York’s agricultural producers, and fostering relationships between SNAP participants and local food providers.

A total of $250,000 is available under this funding round, with awards ranging between $25,000 and $50,000. Funds will be awarded on a rolling basis until they are fully allocated or the final submission deadline is reached. Contracts will be issued following full application review and execution, with awards reimbursed post-expenditure. An advance of up to 25% may be requested, and 10% of the total grant amount will be withheld until submission and acceptance of the final report.

Applicants must be not-for-profit organizations, Indian tribal organizations, public educational institutions, or local or municipal governments. Community-led groups may apply with an eligible fiscal sponsor. All applicants must be registered and prequalified through the Statewide Financial System (SFS) before applying. For-profit entities and individuals are not eligible to apply.

Eligible expenses include direct subsidies to CSA producers (up to 50% of share costs for SNAP buyers), along with administrative costs not exceeding 30% of the total award. Allowable uses include transportation of food, lease or rent of vehicles, relevant equipment and supplies under $5,000, and staff salaries directly tied to project activities. Costs such as construction, indirect costs, general-purpose equipment over $5,000, and items already supported by other federal or state funds are not eligible.

Applications must be submitted online via the SFS Grants Management System by 3:00 p.m. on July 22, 2025. Questions about the program must be submitted by July 8, 2025, and answers will be posted weekly on the Department's website starting March 27, 2025. The grant term will run from February 1, 2025, through March 31, 2026.

For more information or to submit questions, applicants may contact Alison Nickford at the Department of Agriculture and Markets via email at farmersmarkets@agriculture.ny.gov or by fax at (518) 457-8398.