Josh Shapiro Launches $10 Million Grant for Pennsylvania Fruit Growers

Governor Josh Shapiro and Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced the Fruit Grower Freeze Disaster Assistance Recovery Grant Program on August 20 at Three Springs Fruit Farm in Aspers. The program provides up to $10 million in state aid to Pennsylvania growers of grapes, berries, pome, and stone fruits who lost at least 30% of their crops due to freezing temperatures between April 1 and April 21, 2026.

The funding, secured in the 2026-27 budget, is designed to help farmers cover immediate operating costs such as payroll, tree care, and basic bills. Sarah Zost, president of the State Horticultural Association of Pennsylvania, noted that some growers expect to harvest only a quarter of their normal crop, while others report losses exceeding 50%.

Applications for the grants open on August 24 and will remain open through September 21, with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture expecting to distribute funds by the end of September. This state initiative complements federal disaster designations granted by the United States Department of Agriculture to 58 Pennsylvania counties, which provide eligible growers with low-interest loans and expedited insurance damage assessments.