STAFF REPORT

More locally grown produce will be served to MaineGeneral patients, visitors and employees under a partnership with the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association.

The association received a two-year $68,450 federal grant to work with MaineGeneral and increase the foods the hospital buys from growers in Kennebec and Somerset counties.

The grant comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farmers Market Promotion Program.

MaineGeneral plans to spend a major portion of its produce budget with local growers and develop new menus featuring seasonal ingredients, according to a prepared release from the hospital.

"We're very enthusiastic about this program because it has multiple benefits," MaineGeneral Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Chuck Hays said.

"We want to set an example for healthy eating in our communities, reduce the amount of emissions by cutting down on the distance food travels, help sustain Maine farmers and boost the local economy."

MaineGeneral also plans to offer nutrition education to patients and visitors, and to encourage employees to buy local foods.

Melissa White Pillsbury, the association's organic marketing coordinator, said the group "is excited to work with MaineGeneral to showcase the potential for health-care facilities to support Maine's farming community while providing a real service to their patients and employees."