The Shapiro Administration has awarded over $500,000 in Pennsylvania Farm Bill Agriculture & Youth Grants to support agricultural education and career readiness programs across the state. Among the 58 funded projects, Berks County emerged as a major beneficiary, receiving over $50,000 to expand agriculture-focused opportunities for local students.
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced the grants, highlighting the importance of preparing young Pennsylvanians for careers in the state’s $132.5 billion agriculture industry. “These investments in agriculture education will help meet the increasingly complex challenges of tomorrow’s agriculture industry,” Redding said during the announcement at the 2025 PA Farm Show.
Berks County schools and organizations will use the grant funding to implement cutting-edge educational programs, expand facilities, and equip students with practical skills. The projects include:
Kutztown Area School District: Received $6,676 to implement hydroponic growing towers for their “Classroom to Cafeteria” initiative, enabling students to grow and deliver fresh produce for school meals.
Greenwich PTO: Granted $7,401 to launch the “Cultivating a Curiosity in Agriculture” program, designed to engage young learners in agricultural sciences.
Brandywine Heights Area School District: Awarded $7,500 for an animal and veterinary science program and an additional $25,000 for the expansion of their greenhouse facility.
Conrad Weiser Area School District: Received $4,976 to update power equipment for their agriculture and outdoor education program.
These projects aim to foster practical learning experiences, from hydroponic farming to greenhouse management, preparing students for careers in agriculture, veterinary science, and related fields.
The grants are part of the sixth year of the PA Farm Bill’s Ag & Youth Program, which has funded over $3 million in projects statewide since 2019. The program offers direct funding of up to $7,500 and matching grants of up to $25,000 for projects that promote agriculture education, vocational training, and community leadership.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration has also made broader investments in education, including an additional $30 million in Career and Technical Education (CTE) funding and the expansion of broadband internet access to rural communities. These initiatives aim to ensure that students in areas like Berks County have access to quality education and opportunities for family-sustaining careers.
With agriculture at the heart of Pennsylvania’s economy, the Berks County projects will equip the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a growing and evolving industry.
For more information on agriculture programs and youth opportunities, visit agriculture.pa.gov/kidsarethefuture.
