Durham County commissioners unanimously approved a $2.1 million purchase of 129 acres to establish a farm campus focused on urban sustainable agriculture and food production.
Commissioners unanimously approved a $2.1 million purchase of 129 acres on Orange Factory Road to establish a Durham County Farm Campus for urban sustainable agriculture, with closing targeted for end of February.
Food Security Coordinator Mary Oxendine reported the county spent $1.6 million last fiscal year supporting 28,000 people, but acknowledged challenges after emergency SNAP allotments ended, removing $30 million monthly in federal benefits.
The board highlighted $62 million in American Rescue Plan Act spending, including $27 million for affordable housing, and launched DCO Thrive, a guaranteed income pilot providing $750 monthly to 125 low-income families.