Asian Services In Action, Inc. (ASIA, Inc.) announced that U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded the organization a grant that will create a local food enterprise center focused on revitalizing Akron, Ohio’s economy by training, supporting, incubating, and connecting small food-based businesses, from farmers to canners to caterers.

The project, “Akron Food Works!”,is a partnership between ASIA, Inc., The Well Community Development Corporation, and other organizations in focused on self-sustaining solutions for the immigrant and refugee community in Akron.

“Food security and the economic well-being of our community are two key issues for us in Summit County and the City of Akron,” said Michael Byun, ASIA, Inc. CEO. “We are extremely proud of this opportunity – a partnership of the Well Community Development Corporation, Asian Services In Action’s HAPI Fresh farmers’ market program, and other stakeholders in the local food system – to find a solution that is community-specific and community-responsive.”

The ultimate goal of the project is to empower our small businesses, the engine of our local economy, and to accelerate the economic revitalization that is already well underway in Akron.

Congressman Tim Ryan, of District 13 also congratulated ASIA, Inc. on the recent announcement.

“Access to healthy food is not only critical to the physical health of a community’s residents but also its economy. Asian Services in Action’s commitment to supporting food-based businesses and immigrant communities will strengthen our local food system, bring healthier food to everyone’s tables, and boost our local economy,” said Congressman Ryan. “Congress must continue to support public and private partnerships like these so that no child or family goes hungry. I congratulate ASIA and its CEO Michael Byun for receiving this grant.”

For more information about the Akron Food Works! project, contact Susan Wong at susan.wong@asiaohio.org or 216-881-0330.