Sandra Curry, executive director of Community Partnership, Inc., speaks with the media Wednesday at a news conference with Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, not pictured, in Moon Township, Allegheny County. Submitted Photo

Staff of the Community Partnership of Butler County met with military veteran farmers Wednesday alongside Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and Brig. Gen. Mark Goodwill.

Sandra Curry, executive director of the Community Partnership, visited Forever Heart Farm, a veteran-owned farm in Moon Township, Allegheny County, which employs sustainable agricultural practices and organic growing methods to make eggs, produce and pastured meats.

The Department of Agriculture awarded $200,000 to two veterans' service organizations, including Community Partnership, that are offering farmer veteran grants.

Grants of up to $10,000 will be awarded for various agricultural business needs ranging from food safety and biosecurity planning, to equipment, marketing or working capital.

Curry commented during the visit Wednesday that the veteran farmers she has spoken with have been eager to apply for grant funding.

“We recognize the strong connection between military service and rural life,” she said. “Over the past six weeks, we have been honored to talk to prospective veteran grantees about their experience.”