Augusta Locally Grown has been recognized by Bank of America as a Neighborhood Champion for providing access to healthy food and nutrition education.

The nonprofit organization is receiving a $50,000 grant over two years, which will support the opening of a new Agricultural Innovation and Education Center where it can expand current programming and improve services.

Augusta Locally Grown supports small farms and gardeners by making their all-natural, locally-grown, sustainably-grown fresh foods available for sale in the local community.

Pictured front row, from left: Diane Kerekanich, Augusta Locally Grown development director; Rebecca van Loenen, Augusta Locally Grown executive director; and Marissa Smith, Bank of America Aiken/Augusta senior vice president. Back row: Mick Ankrom, Bank of America Aiken/Augusta executive market sponsor and global compliance and operational risk executive; Ora Parish, Bank of America Aiken/Augusta president.