Two programs that aim to promote agricultural education for young people in Berks County are getting a financial boost from the state.
On the third day of the 2026 Farm Show, Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced that Alvernia University and Brandywine Heights School District will each get $7,500 through the Agriculture and Youth Grant Program.
The program provides direct and matching grants to youth-centered organizations for projects and programs that promote agricultural education.
Alvernia will use the funds for its Seeds of Discovery Program that is launching a raised flower bed pilot project, while Brandywine Heights will use the funds for its Poultry Science Program.
“Pennsylvania youth are the fertile ground that will grow our nation’s prosperity in the future,” Redding said. “The Shapiro Administration is committed to investing in opportunities every young person needs to succeed. Our investments in relevant agriculture education today will help Pennsylvania agriculture businesses meet increasingly complex challenges tomorrow.”
State Rep. Manny Guzman applauded Alvernia for winning the grant.
“This funding will strengthen the meaningful work of the Seeds of Discovery pilot project and support opportunities for youth to develop valuable agricultural and leadership skills,” the Reading Democrat said. “I’m pleased to see Alvernia University among the grant recipients of this program.”