Central Arkansas Sphinx Foundation Awarded $873K USDA Grant to Strengthen Urban Agriculture and Food Security

The Central Arkansas Sphinx Foundation (CASF) is excited to announce it has been awarded an $873,713 subaward grant through To Improve Mississippi Economics, Inc. (T.I.M.E., Inc.) under the USDA Urban and Innovation Agriculture program. This historic investment will expand urban farming, food security, and conservation education across Pulaski County, Arkansas.

Expanding Equity in Urban Agriculture

This grant represents a major step forward in addressing food insecurity and economic inequality in Central Arkansas. Through education, outreach, and technical support, CASF will work directly with residents who have historically had limited access to USDA resources.

With this funding, CASF will:

• Provide micro-grants for seeds, plants, soil, containers, and on-farm infrastructure.

• Help families and individuals establish backyard gardens, raised beds, and container-grown vegetables.

• Launch 10 new demonstration sites and 10 new community gardens within two years.

• Host 20 workshops and field trips to teach sustainable food production and conservation practices.

  
  

Building Strong Community Partnerships

The program will partner with churches, nonprofits, schools, universities, and food pantries to create a powerful urban conservation network. By mobilizing new and existing partners, CASF will not only improve access to fresh, healthy foods but also equip leaders to transform their neighborhoods through agriculture.

Project Goals and Impact

• Educate 2,000 Central Arkansas residents about USDA programs, urban farming, and conservation.

• Train 300 youth and adults to grow food at home through raised-bed and container gardening.

• Support socially disadvantaged and low-income communities in accessing USDA resources and technical training.

• Prepare community leaders to serve on local agricultural boards and conservation committees.

  
  

This initiative will bring real resources into neighborhoods, supporting families with the knowledge and tools to grow food, improve soil health, and strengthen their communities.

A Future Rooted in Equity and Growth

“This grant allows us to bring resources directly into neighborhoods, empowering residents to grow their own food, strengthen conservation practices, and connect with programs that have been out of reach for far too long,” said Kalven Trice, Principal Investigator for CASF.

The Central Arkansas Sphinx Foundation is honored to lead this effort, advancing food security and agricultural equity in partnership with T.I.M.E., Inc., the USDA, and local organizations. Together, we’re planting the seeds for a stronger, healthier Central Arkansas.