Piscataway, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced a new workforce training program at Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools (MCVTS). The Agricultural and Aquacultural Workforce Training Program will focus on agricultural and seafood industry workforce development and help address food insecurity in Middlesex County. Pallone secured $300,200 for the program in the federal spending bill that was signed into law in March.
The funding will provide the resources the schools need to expand work-based learning and industry partnerships. Students will also be able to grow fresh vegetables for distribution to families in Middlesex County.
“I’m proud to announce today that I secured federal funding for a new workforce training program right here in Middlesex County. This program will help train the next generation of farmers and fishermen in new technology so they can lead fulfilling careers in the agricultural and fishing industries in our region,” said Pallone. “This funding will also allow families in need in Middlesex County to access fresh vegetables, helping to address food insecurity in our community. I’m grateful for the local officials, educators, and students who joined me today, and I’m excited to see the good things that come out of this new program.”
“Food innovation is a crucial element in the County’s economic development strategy. Our goal, as part of Destination 2040 – our strategic plan for long-term economic success – is to attract, retain, and expand businesses in key industries like food innovation,” said Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners Director Ronald G. Rios. “We are building the future of agriculture right here in Middlesex County, and this new food innovation program at our County Vocational Schools – made possible through the $300,000 in federal funding secured by Congressman Pallone – will help us do just that.”
"The funding will allow MCVTS to grow our agriscience program by providing the latest techniques and training for our students to equip new generations of residents to carry on our county’s agricultural and aquacultural tradition and, at the same time, provide sustenance to our residents who are in need," said MCVTS Superintendent of Schools Jorge E. Diaz.
“Often, fresh fruits and vegetables are difficult items for our food pantries to collect, as they do not have as long a shelf life as canned, boxed, or prepared goods,” said Wilhelmina Bryant, Piscataway North Stelton AME Church's director of the James O. Bryant Food Pantry. “This exciting new educational program will fill a need for us by supplying us with additional fresh fruits and vegetables – grown right here by our students – to provide to residents in need.”
“By building a cutting-edge training program to train people interested in entering the agricultural industry, we can ensure a pipeline which will develop not only the farm hands – but the farm owners – of the future,” said Jim Giamarese, chairman of the Middlesex County Agricultural Development Board. “Many of our farms also have a legacy of giving back to our local community, and through this program, we’re grateful to see that the fruits of the students’ labor will be provided back to the community.”
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