FREDERICK, Md. – Families across Frederick County will have increased access to nutritious meals, thanks to the award of $500,000 in Food Equity and Emergency Distribution (FEED) Grants. The grants will help 19 nonprofits, including food banks, pantries and religious organizations, to meet the increased demand for food services caused by the recent federal government shutdown.
The FEED Grant Program was launched in November by County Executive Jessica Fitzwater and administered in partnership with The Community Foundation of Frederick County. The initiative uses one-time funds to strengthen food distribution efforts. Eligible uses include buying food, essential supplies, and investments such as refrigeration and storage equipment.
“No person should go hungry in our community,” Executive Fitzwater said. “These grants will help people from all corners of Frederick County, from Middletown and Brunswick to Emmitsburg and Thurmont. We are committed to supporting organizations that are on the front lines of fighting food insecurity.”
“The Community Foundation is proud to partner with Frederick County Government on this critical initiative,” said Betsy Day, President and CEO of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. “These grants will help local organizations continue their vital work and expand services to meet the growing needs of our neighbors during this challenging time.”
Organizations receiving grants represent a diverse range of programs and services:
- Andrea’s House Inc. – Food for residents.
- Asbury United Methodist Church – Gas range, fryer, reach-in freezer and food for community.
- Asian American Center of Frederick – Food purchases to expand distribution along the Golden Mile.
- Blessings in a Backpack, Frederick Chapter – Weekend backpack meals for food-insecure children attending Frederick County Public Schools.
- Brunswick Ecumenical Assistance Committee on Needs (BEACON) – Essential food items for the Brunswick Food Bank.
- Farm to School Frederick Inc. – Veggie Van mobile markets to increase healthy food access.
- Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry – Processing costs for deer and livestock to supply local food banks and food ministries.
- Glade Valley Community Services – Support for the Glade Valley Food Bank.
- Golden Mile Alliance – Hot meal program for students during spring break at Hillcrest Elementary.
- Helping Hands and Caring Hearts – Food and hygiene supplies for vulnerable populations.
- I Believe In Me Inc. – Student and family meals, and food distributions.
- Maryland Food Bank – Wholesale food purchases for distribution to food programs in Frederick County.
- Middletown Valley Food Bank – Refrigeration equipment and food purchases to support local families.
- Safe Ride Foundation – Transportation program to help residents access food resources.
- The Salvation Army – Upgrades to equipment, food safety improvements, and ensuring reliable meals and hydration at the Frederick Day Shelter.
- Seton Center – Feeding Hungry Families program to purchase food for those in need.
- Thurmont Ministerium – Capital improvements for food storage, including outdoor shed and refrigeration and freezer units.
- Wells Recovery – Food distribution for individuals in recovery programs.
- YMCA of Frederick County – Community produce market to provide fresh fruits and vegetables.
A second round of FEED Grant applications will open later in 2026. For more information on eligibility and application requirements, visit FrederickCountyMD.gov/FEED.
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