Vermont Business Magazine The People’s United Community Foundation, the philanthropic arm of People’s United Bank, announced Friday that it has awarded $3,500 to Rutland Area Farm and Food Link (RAFFL). Since 2004, the Rutland Area Farm and Food Link has worked to expand availability and access to locally produced foods, bolster the greater Rutland region’s agricultural economy, and increase community appreciation and understanding of the positive impact of farms and farmers on the Rutland region. Through its programs, RAFFL, in collaboration with statewide partners, is helping to conserve Vermont’s working landscapes for future generations.
“The donation from People’s United Community Foundation will support our efforts to bring nutritious produce grown by local farmers into the hands of people who are struggling to meet basic needs,” noted Tara Kelly, Executive Director. “When things get tough enough that a person needs to seek help, they ought to be able to make healthy choices while they are getting back on their feet.”
“We are pleased to support RAFFL’s efforts to engage additional volunteers and provide much-needed local, healthy, fresh food to area food sites,” said Michael Seaver, Officer of People’s United Community Foundation and President of People’s United Bank in Vermont. “Many of us take for granted our ability to purchase healthy food; RAFFL does an excellent job in our communities to assure that there is access for all.”
Established in 2007, People’s United Community Foundation was formed to help support programs and activities that enhance the quality of life for citizens in the communities that People’s United Bank serves. People’s United Bank, founded in 1842 and serving customers from New York to Maine through a network of more than 400 branches, is the largest independent bank headquartered in New England. The Foundation places special emphasis on programs designed to promote economic self-sufficiency, education and improved conditions for low-income families and neighborhoods. The funding priorities of the Foundation include affordable housing, community development, and youth development.