BAINBRIDGE–Southwest Georgia Farm Credit is partnering with local Farmers Markets to promote and support farmers who own/operate produce stands that sell locally grown products.

“We know how much people enjoy locally grown fruits and vegetables,” said Richard Monson, Chief Executive Officer of Southwest Georgia Farm Credit. “The Fresh from the Farm program is an opportunity for us to collaborate with those farmers who sell locally grown produce at a Farmers Market or U-pick operations. In addition, we know that these markets are key in developing both local and regional food systems that in turn support the sustainability of our family farms.”

Through the Fresh from the Farm initiative, Southwest Georgia Farm Credit will provide grants totaling $5,000 ($500 each) to 10 qualifying Farmers Markets. Each grant recipient will receive a check for $500 and 250 reusable shopping bags for distribution to their market shoppers.

Applications for this grant are available under the News and Information tab at SWGAFarmCredit.com or by contacting Frances Edmunds at (229) 493-0140 or by email at fedmunds@swgafarmcredit.com. Completed grant applications can be mailed to Southwest Georgia Farm Credit, Attention: Fresh from the Farm, 305 Colquitt Highway, Bainbridge, GA 39817; emailed to fedmunds@SWGAFarmCredit.com; or faxed to (888) 834.9128. Completed applications must be received by September 30, 2013.

Southwest Georgia Farm Credit is a locally owned and controlled financial cooperative headquartered in Bainbridge, Georgia, and is part of the nationwide Farm Credit System, established by Congress in 1916 to ensure rural areas have access to competitively priced financing. Five offices serve 21 counties, offering a variety of loan and leasing programs. Residential mortgages are also available.