DOWNIEVILLE — Empire Creek Provisions Market in Downieville recently received a grant for $13,575.10 from the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) to install energy-efficient refrigeration as part of the Healthy Refrigeration Grant Program. The program aims to increase access to healthy foods in California’s “food deserts,” a particularly relevant issue in Sierra County, where fresh store-bought produce and meats can be over an hour’s drive away.

Sonya Meline, co-owner of Empire Creek Provisions, commented, “While we initially sought a larger amount, this grant is a significant step forward for us. It will enable us to invest in energy-efficient refrigeration, expanding our stock of California-grown fruits, vegetables, nuts, and more. Our goal is to transition from a specialty store to a community-focused source of fresh, locally sourced food.

“(...) Having fresh food available year-round is a top priority for us. This grant is just the beginning. We are excited about the possibilities it brings, but we acknowledge that there’s much work ahead. Our commitment is to transition into a community-oriented food source, meeting the diverse needs of our residents and ensuring they have access to quality, affordable, California-sourced farm fresh foods.”

The CFDA’s “Office of Farm to Fork” invested approximately $9 million into 103 projects under the grant program; $2.7 million went to 43 corner stores and small businesses, $4 million to 15 city, county, non-profit, or government organization programs, and $2 million to 45 food donation programs statewide.

Concerning the grant program generally, CDFA Secretary Karen Ross stated, “This program is funding refrigeration units across California, from Humboldt County to San Diego. That demonstrates the importance of these grants in increasing food access in underserved communities. We thank Governor Newsom and the California Legislature for funding this effort.”

In a press release, Empire Creek Provisions stressed being thrilled to contribute to the local availability of fresh produce, nuts, eggs, dairy, and meat. The windfall brings hope to a community stripped of many local grocery shopping options in the last few decades.

Michael Meline, another owner of Empire Creek Provisions, thanked the Sierra Business Council and Climate and Energy Technician Brittany Gutierrez for their help in securing the grant, stating, “If it weren’t for them, we would not have found out about the grant, and Brittany was instrumental in guiding us through the application process.”