11th Hour Racing awards ACT $150,000 for a stronger food system on Aquidneck Island

Grant will support enhanced local food access and expanded garden and compost programs

Aquidneck Community Table (ACT) today announced a $150,000 grant award from 11th Hour Racing to support its work to build a stronger and more just food system on Aquidneck Island. The funding will help increase access to local foods, along with garden and compost programs, in local communities with need.  

“Everyone deserves access to fresh foods and growing opportunities that honor their cultural traditions and help nourish their families,” said Rose Jones, ACT executive director. “A strong food system is one in which people feel ownership, reflection, and empowerment. At the same time, it helps to strengthen our resilience and economic vitality as a community.”

The grant funding will help accelerate ACT’s work under its new strategic plan. Launched earlier this year, the three-year plan includes several targeted initiatives to promote healthier people, places, and economies. Among them are strengthening public market offerings and expanding garden and compost programs in under-resourced communities, such as Newport’s North End. Founded in 2016, ACT operates popular community markets on the island, along with a network of neighborhood gardens, farmlands, and school-based learning programs. 

“We’re proud to support ACT’s efforts to create a more equitable and resilient food system; one that meets real community needs and reflects the values of Aquidneck Island,” said Michelle Carnevale, president of 11th Hour Racing.

Earlier this month, ACT announced a new market offering at the Newport County YMCA in Middletown. The weekly market runs on Saturday mornings through October 25, with the goal to make shopping local more affordable, accessible, and fun for islanders. The market features over 20 local vendors and community groups, along with area musicians and children’s programs. It is made possible through support from the Y, 11th Hour Racing, BankNewport, People’s Credit Union, and Child & Family. 

“These are challenging times for so many. We must hold tight to the hope and joy found in community,” continued Jones. “Working together, we will meet this moment and secure a vibrant food future for our island. We are grateful to 11th Hour Racing for its steady leadership and guiding light in this work.”

For more information about ACT, visit www.aquidneckcommunitytable.org or follow us on Facebook or Instagram. Learn more about 11th Hour Racing at 11thhourracing.org.

About 11th Hour Racing

Inspired by the dynamics of sailboat racing and the urgency for climate action, 11th Hour Racing is committed to the health and resilience of ocean systems. Supporting innovative, sustainable solutions in the maritime industry and beyond through sport, storytelling and grant-making, 11th Hour Racing works to build healthy planetary systems and strong communities. Under the 11th Hour Racing umbrella, activities are provided through 11th Hour Racing, Inc., which serves as the impact entity and provides programmatic direction to its philanthropic partners, including 11th Hour Racing Charitable, LLC, which engages in charitable work, and 11th Hour Racing Action, LLC, which engages in social welfare programs and advocacy. Learn more at 11thhourracing.org.