ESSEX, Md. — Sen. Chris Van Hollen awarded federal funding to a Baltimore County food center on Friday.
$800,000 has been allocated to the AfriThrive Community Food Center in Essex.
The funding will help the center make upgrades, such as improving food handling and distribution, and creating a space for nutrition education.
Sen. Chris Van Hollen awards Baltimore County food center $800,000 in federal funding
Van Hollen presented the organization's founder with a ceremonial check, toured the center, and spoke with community members.
"This building will be a place where food restores health, where partnerships create opportunity, and where every person who walks through the door is welcome with dignity and respect," said Dr. Truphena Choti, AfriThrive's CEO and founder.
The center's goal is to increase its ability to provide fresh, healthy, and culturally appropriate foods to immigrant and low-income families across Baltimore County and the city.
"The funding is more than just bricks and mortar, it's an investment in healthier families, stronger neighborhoods, and a more equitable food system," said Choti.
