Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker continued the Shapiro Administration’s 2025 Urban Agriculture Tour in Philadelphia, highlighting investments aimed at expanding agricultural apprenticeship training and improving access to fresh food in local neighborhoods. The tour included a visit to Sankofa Farm at Bartram’s Garden, where efforts are underway to provide career training for young adults.
Secretary Redding emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating, “Young people across Pennsylvania are receiving priceless life skills, confidence, and in some cases, starting their careers debt-free, with stellar credentials and top-notch experience through the seeds planted when we invest together in urban agriculture.” He added that these investments will transform communities over time.
The tour is part of a broader effort by Shapiro Administration leaders to meet Pennsylvanians working to increase fresh food access and break down various barriers. In April 2025, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry awarded $399,533 to the John Bartram Association for an 18-month registered apprenticeship at Sankofa Farm. This grant is part of a larger $6.6 million investment in career opportunities across several sectors.
Secretary Walker noted the strategic role agriculture plays in Pennsylvania’s economy. “This new apprenticeship builds on the farm’s nationally recognized, accredited youth workforce model rooted in African Diaspora cultural traditions and food justice,” she said.
The tour also included stops at Bidwell Training Center in Pittsburgh and Chamounix Stables in West Fairmount Park. At Bidwell Training Center, students are being trained for culinary and horticulture careers with support from state funding. Meanwhile, a $500,000 investment is helping renovate facilities at Chamounix Stables.
Governor Josh Shapiro has increased funding for vocational-technical education and apprenticeships by nearly $65 million since taking office. His 2025-26 budget proposal seeks further investment to train additional workers through various programs.
In February 2025, Governor Shapiro announced Agricultural Innovation grants totaling $10 million for businesses across Pennsylvania. Additionally, a $500,000 investment was made into Urban Agriculture Infrastructure Grants to address challenges in city neighborhoods.
Pennsylvania has invested over $3.2 million in urban agriculture since 2019 through various grants and initiatives. Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal includes further investments aimed at maintaining Pennsylvania’s leadership in agriculture.
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