Blue Hill Peninsula Community Food Grants

Geographic Scope: Towns of Blue Hill, Sedgwick, Penobscot, Castine, Orland, Surry, Deer Isle, Stonington, Brooksville, and Brooklin

Focus Areas:

• Projects or programs intended to increase food sustainability
• Improve health and well-being of Blue Hill Peninsula residents
• Emphasis on creating a more just and sustainable local food system
• Food production, education, or related projects
• High priority for projects demonstrating community benefit

Eligibility:

• Nonprofit organizations
• Schools
• Community groups
• Individuals
• Projects must be carried out in designated towns

Award Priority:

• First-time grant recipients receive priority
• Prior award winners MUST submit a project evaluation form before submitting new proposals

Important Notes:

• Grants may be considered taxable income; applicants should consult a tax professional
• MFT will issue IRS Form 1099 to all individuals and entities receiving awards
• Applicants encouraged to request minimum award needed to complete project

Contact:

• Alex Fouliard, Maine Farmland Trust
• Email: alex@mainefarmlandtrust.org
• Phone: 207-338-6575

Background:
In 2022, 18 projects received a total of $45,000. Funds have supported initiatives like home delivery of fresh produce and farm infrastructure improvements.

Application Process

1. Complete application form with the following information:
- Applicant information
- Project description
- Answer required questions

2. Submission method:
- Email submission preferred: alex@mainefarmlandtrust.org
- Alternative: Mail to Blue Hill Peninsula Community Food Grant Review Committee, 97 Main St., Belfast, ME 04915

3. Format:
- Application can be downloaded and filled in a word processor
- Highlight and copy text from application form into document

4. Timeline:
- Deadline: March 31 (annual)
- Decisions and awards announced by April 30

5. Required Documentation:
- Prior award winners must submit a project evaluation form before submitting new proposals