TOLEDO – Tama County Extension received a $4,450 grant to support their Power of Produce (PoP) program. The grant is provided through FCSAmerica’s Working Here Fund.

The Working Here Fund grant will support the Power of Produce program at the Toledo farmer’s market. Children can visit the PoP table and engage in fun, hands-on educational activities focused on health, nutrition and gardening. Children who participate receive a token for fresh fruits and vegetables from local vendors. This program will be extended to community members over 60 years old as part of the PoP PLUS program that will launch over the next three years.

“PoP and PoP PLUS will bring more fresh food choices to people of lower incomes,” Cheryl Bruene, executive director, said. “Many families and older adults in our community now face barriers to accessing fresh produce due to cost, transportation, or limited availability in their neighborhoods. Power of Produce allows participants to buy fruits and vegetables they might not otherwise afford or prioritize”

The PoP program will take place each summer and beginning in 2026, Tama County Extension plans to expand to all the county farmer’s markets with pop-ups throughout the summer.

Tama County Extension is one of 200 organizations to receive a Working Here Fund grant in the second quarter of 2025. FCSAmerica awarded more than $1.7 million during the latest grant cycle ending June 30, 2025.

“At FCSAmerica, we are not only committed to farmers and ranchers but also to helping feed our rural communities,” Adam Pirkl, regional vice president of customer experience in FCSAmerica’s Marshalltown office, said.

About Tama County Extension

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach serves as a vital link between ISU and the people of Iowa, providing access to research, expertise, and educational programs. It works directly with communities, collaborating with various stakeholders, offering resources and support tailored to local needs.