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Pa. Grocery Initiative Wins 'Smart Growth' Recognition

HARRISBURG, Pa. - A state program providing assistance for grocery stores to open in underserved neighborhoods was awarded the Environmental Protection Agency's 2006 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement, according to officials the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development here. The Fresh Food Financing Initiative has funded 11 supermarkets, generating around $46 million in investments since its inception in early 2004, according to the state.

HARRISBURG, Pa. - A state program providing assistance for grocery stores to open in underserved neighborhoods was awarded the Environmental Protection Agency‘s 2006 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement, according to officials the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development here. The Fresh Food Financing Initiative has funded 11 supermarkets, generating around $46 million in investments since its inception in early 2004, according to the state. The program uses state funds along with matching grants from private and public sources to connect supermarket operators, developers and communities. The EPA‘s Smart Growth award recognizes public sector entities that promote balanced regional development.