May 23, 2025
AgGeorgia Farm Credit awarded $53,800 in grant funding to twelve nonprofit organizations across Georgia through its Community Mission Fund. Launched in 2023, the grant program supports projects that promote the future of agriculture and enhance the quality of life in rural communities with grants of up to $5,000 awarded per project.
Among the 2024 recipients is Hickory Log Personal Care Home, which serves men with intellectual or developmental disabilities in Bartow County. Hickory Log’s mission includes helping residents learn valuable vocational skills, and agriculture has become a key part of that effort.
With support from the Community Mission Fund, Hickory Log constructed an 8 ft. by 4 ft. chicken coop and a small, enclosed area near its existing garden. The project was designed to introduce residents to agricultural practices in a hands-on, engaging way. Since its installation, residents have embraced the responsibility of caring for the chickens, an experience that not only teaches practical skills but also contributes to the home’s sustainability by supplying fresh eggs and reducing grocery expenses.
In addition, Hickory Log has launched a local farmer’s market to engage the wider Rydal community and bring local farmers to the facility. The market serves as a platform for education and inclusion, connecting residents with agricultural professionals and reinforcing the value of rural collaboration.
Organizations that received 2024 Community Mission Fund grants include:
- Ben Hill County 4-H (Ben Hill County)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Jackson County (Jackson County)
- Byromville Community Food Pantry (Dooly County)
- Comfort Farms (Baldwin County)
- C-Qul (Bibb County)
- Doc’s Healing Hives and Honey (Fannin County)
- Georgia Envirothon (Clarke County)
- Hero Agriculture (Gordon County)
- Sacred Roots Farm Inc (Hall County)
- Teloga Volunteer Fire Department
- Thomson Middle School FFA (Houston County)
AgGeorgia is accepting applications for 2025 Community Mission Fund grants until June 30, 2025. Interested organizations can learn more and apply by visiting www.aggeorgia.com/community-mission-fund.