Cutrona Announces $15 Million for Food Banks

State Rep. Al Cutrona (R-Canfield) announces that $15 million was approved on Monday for regional food banks to acquire and distribute food products. The initiative was approved by the Ohio State Controlling Board. 

“With skyrocketing inflation prices hitting our residents hard in purchasing grocery items, I’m happy to support legislation that’s going to alleviate affordability for Ohioans across the Valley to get food for themselves and their families,” Cutrona said.

Cutrona cosponsored and voted to support House Bill 110, known as the state operating budget that included the funding for this measure. These dollars are going to allow the Department of Job and Family Services to work with Ohio-based producers and processors to purchase, transport, store, and distribute livestock, dairy, and poultry protein products. The funding will be administered through the thirteen regional food banks, including Second Harvest of the Mahoning Valley, with each entity identifying, purchasing, and procuring products based on local needs and availability of protein products.

Just this past weekend, Cutrona attended the Taste of the Valley event supporting the Second Harvest Food Bank where local groups and residents attended. 

Additionally, Cutrona notes he also supported $1.5 million for the Hawkins Acquisition adjacent to the Berlin Lake Wildlife Area in Mahoning County. The measure is to increase recreational opportunities for Ohioans and increase the habitat area and reduce maintenance costs. The measure also stems from the state operating budget.

The next State Controlling Board meeting is scheduled for Oct. 24.