Thanks in part to being awarded the USDA Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP) grant and the Indiana Meat Packers Expansion Grant, This Old Farm is able to move forward with expansion of our facility in Colfax, plus add a retail butcher shop in Lafayette! Receiving these grants mean we will be able to increase our slaughter and processing capacity along with meet the demand for locally sourced meats in the greater Lafayette area.
Some may find government grants controversial or disapprove of this type of funding. Government grants for small businesses stimulate economic growth, community development, and promote innovation. These grants are not just handed out because someone asked. Receiving a government grant is an extremely competitive process. The paperwork is complex and applicants must describe how the awarded funds will benefit the local community or the public at large. Receiving a government grant is an honor that is not taken lightly. Once the work is underway we will begin scheduling additional livestock appointments. If you are a farmer or know a farmer, please make sure your name is on the waitlist so you are one of the first to know when we start scheduling additional appointments for 2021.
Our global pandemic has changed our world and brought the need for local food marketplaces to the forefront. Meat shortages have been seen as the larger commodity hog and beef facilities struggle to stay open. This Old Farm has worked for the last 10 years to help producers grow their markets by offering meat slaughter and processing services as well as aggregation of local meat products for wholesale sale. In order for us to meet the increased demand for custom processing services, locally sourced meat products for retail and wholesale customers, and continue our mission of supporting the family farm, plans to expand the processing facility and open an urban, old world style butcher shop are moving full steam ahead. Additionally, farmer outreach programs will be expanded, educational programming will be offered for youth, beginning farmers, as well as existing farmers that are new to selling direct to consumer.
On behalf of everyone at This Old Farm, your ongoing support (and patience) as we work to meet the challenges this year has brought are appreciated! We are excited to look toward the future and hope you will join us for the journey!
As a right-wing conservative I’m not crazy about government grants, but in this case I’ll make an exception. Congratulations, and best of luck on the expansion plans. You are doing wonderful work.
Thank you, David. It took me many years to look at this method of starting or expanding a business myself. Then I realized I could do good with it and that is indeed my mission. I appreciate your kind words. Jessica
How exciting for you and Congratulations!!
Thank you, Amanda!
yay!!! A butcher shop in Lafayette. You will have my business as I appreciate your focus on humane treatment of farm animals. I want to spend my dollars on such a business. May confined animal feed lots be a thing of the past. I will support farmers who pasture
their animals and raise them humanely and concern themselves with a dignified end of life.
Oh good! Thank you for your support both now at our store in Colfax or through delivery and next summer at our new location. We need all the support for farmers that we can get!