Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo The Dickinson County Fair has received a $750 Farm and Fairs Hunger Relief Grant, which it passed along to the Salvation Army Bread of Life Assistance Center of Kingsford. Dickinson County Fair board members present the donation to Salvation Army — from left are Tom Bedard, John Gunville, Ashley Edwards, Chuck Parker, Tara Coss, Liane Arnold, Beth Bray, Victoria Jakel and Mike Gregg.

NORWAY — The Dickinson County Fair has received a $750 Farm and Fairs Hunger Relief Grant that was turned over to the Salvation Army Bread of Life Assistance Center of Kingsford.

The grant is a collective effort between Michigan Farm Bureau Family of Companies and Michigan Farm Bureau Family of Companies to promote agriculture organizations’ involvement in hunger-alleviating efforts.

The grant funds up to $750 for fairs and festivals programs aimed at increasing the food supply at local pantries.

This spring, the Dickinson County Fair Board members partnered with the Salvation Army to host a Seed to Table event, which was “designed to bring together farms, families and food, while raising awareness about food insecurity and putting food into the hands of those who need it most,” Salvation Army Director Tara Coss said.

Participants were able to select from a large assortment of fruit, vegetable and flowers seed packets, along with several sizes of seed starter kits and pots. They also had garden tools available.

Horticulture educational material, along with information on other food programs, was available to attendees as well.

As part of the program they ask attendees to bring five non-perishable items to exchange for access to seed packets and other growing material.

“We really hope that those who came to get seeds will share their produce with the Salvation Army or other local pantries,” fair board member and event organizer Beth Bray said.

“I think it is a great opportunity for the community and I’m looking forward to seeing the results,” she added.

All the food — fresh and non-perishable items — donated from the event until Nov. 1 is tracked.

“Growing your own food offers numerous benefits such as improved nutrition, cost savings and positive environmental impacts,” Coss said. “The program is a welcomed donation to our pantry. It can also enhance mental and physical well-being, promote self-sufficiency and reduce food waste.”

Bray noted they plan to do the event again next year.

Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.