[Washington, D.C., May 7, 2024] – The Festival Center is proud to announce that it has been awarded a grant through Capital Impact Partners. This grant aims to bolster 22 businesses and nonprofits in the Washington metro area, empowering them to expand their operations while enhancing access to healthy food options for marginalized communities.
The grant, part of the “Nourish DC” initiative funded by The Morningstar Foundation, will provide crucial support to these organizations by facilitating the acquisition of cold storage infrastructure.
Cold storage infrastructure, including refrigerators, freezers, coolers, delivery vehicles, and display cases, is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of perishable foods. By enhancing the capacity of these businesses and nonprofits to store fresh produce and other perishable items, the initiative aims to address food insecurity and promote healthier eating habits among vulnerable populations.
Bill Mefford, the Executive Director of the Festival Center, expressed gratitude for the grant, stating, “The Keeping it Cool grant is vital to furthering the work of the Festival Center because it will allow us to increase refrigerated and freezer storage so that we can best support partner organizations that are feeding our community.”
This collaborative effort between Capital Impact Partners, The Morningstar Foundation, and local food businesses and nonprofits underscores a commitment to equity and community well-being. By investing in cold storage infrastructure, the initiative seeks to create a more sustainable and inclusive food system, ensuring that all residents have access to nutritious food options.
For more information about the Festival Center and its initiatives, please visit www.festivalcenter.org.
About The Festival Center:
The Festival Center is a community hub in Washington, D.C., dedicated to promoting social justice, spiritual renewal, and environmental sustainability. Through various programs and partnerships, the Festival Center strives to address systemic inequalities and empower individuals and communities to create positive change.
