Binghamton, NY – During a visit to the Volunteers Improving Neighborhood Environments (VINES) Urban Farm in Binghamton, Assemblywoman Lupardo announced that she secured $125,000 in funding for the organization: $75,000 was included in the 2022 state budget, and $50,000 was part of the 2021 state budget.

Joined by VINES Executive Director Amelia LoDolce, and students participating in the Grow Binghamton Summer Youth Program, Assemblywoman Lupardo discussed how the funds will go to support the Community Gardens, Farm Share and Grow Binghamton Youth Programs. Following the press conference, Summer Youth Program participants gave Assemblywoman Lupardo a tour of the Urban Farm on Tudor Street.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo said, “We are very fortunate to have an organization like VINES working in our community since 2007. Urban farming is fast becoming a local point of pride and a learning opportunity for people of all ages. As Chair of the Assembly Committee on Agriculture, I am very pleased to be able recognize their efforts with funds from the last two state budgets. I encourage everyone to learn more about the wonderful work VINES is doing in neighborhoods throughout the County.”

Amelia LoDolce, Executive Director of VINES Community Gardens said, “These funds will make a huge difference in VINES' ability to provide services to our community through community gardens, our farm share program, youth employment program and more. We are incredibly grateful to Assemblywoman Lupardo for understanding the importance of our local agriculture and food sector and for investing in efforts like ours to improve food security while strengthening our local farm economy."

To learn more about VINES, you can visit their Web site.