The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has announced a competitive application process for the Healthy Refrigeration Grant Program (HRGP). CDFA will fund energy-efficient and climate-friendly refrigeration and freezer equipment in corner stores, small businesses, and food donation programs in low-income or low-food access areas throughout the state of California. New units are to stock California-grown fresh produce, nuts, eggs, meat, dairy, minimally processed, and culturally appropriate foods. The purpose of the program is to improve access to healthy foods in underserved communities, while promoting CA-grown agriculture.

Eligible entities for this program include corner stores, small businesses, food donation programs, and nonprofits working with eligible sites and/or selling or donating food in low-income or low-access areas. Cities, counties, nonprofits or Tribal governments may also apply for equipment on behalf of eligible sites and may apply for up to 20% of total grant awards to provide technical assistance.