Food organization asks Cornwall for $35,000 to promote local food

(Newswatch Group/Bill Kingston, File)

CORNWALL – A non-profit organization that is working to help build the regional agri-food business sector is asking Cornwall city council for money.

Eastern Ontario Agri-Food Network (EOAN) Executive Director Tom Manley will make a presentation to council tonight (Monday).

EOAN has been around since 2010 in Prescott-Russell. It extended into SD&G but “retreated” to Prescott-Russell due to lack of funding.

The organization works to support producers while getting people to eat more local food products. Manley believes the coronavirus pandemic has only heightened the need for local food sources.

Looking to make inroads again, the request is for $35,000 from Cornwall (and $25,000 from the United Counties of SD&G).

EOAN has a proposed “annual core funding” of $150,000, which includes a $40,000 commitment from Prescott-Russell and $50,000 it expects to get from members, sponsors and stakeholders.

The request will be going to city staff for a report.