SAVANNAH, Ga. () — The City of Savannah has received a $125,000 grant from the African American Mayors Association (AAMA) focused on access to healthy foods.

The grant was awarded in partnership with the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America to support local initiatives that promote health food access, improvements to nutrition education and address affordability in underserved communities. 

Savannah is among seven cities nationwide selected in four categories through a competitive application process recognizing innovative, equity-driven public health strategies.

A total of $600,000 in grants were issued this year. This year, New Orleans, La. and Savannah received $125,000 in the mid-size city category. Atlanta, Ga. was selected in the large-size city category, receiving $175,000.

“We have to create opportunities as a loving and just community to ensure that all young people have access to clean, good, healthy food,” Mayor Van R. Johnson, II said. “I am so grateful, and I thank the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America and my beloved African American Mayors Association for helping us to be Savannah strong.” 

The grant announcement took place during the African American Mayors Association National Conference in Washington, D.C., April 16-18.