Sweet Grown Alabama, the state’s agricultural branding program, this week added the Poarch Band of Creek Indians (PCI) as a founding member of the non-profit organization.
The program represents over 170 farmer, restaurant, market and business members across the state who play a role in bringing local products to Yellowhammer State consumers.
“I am excited to announce our support of Sweet Grown Alabama,” stated Stephanie A. Bryan, PCI tribal chair and CEO. “We are always looking for ways to support Alabama’s economy and this important initiative will educate Alabamians about products that are grown and bred in our own backyards.”
The program’s mission is to enhance marketing opportunities for the state’s farmers by connecting retailers and consumers to Alabama-grown foods and other agricultural products. Sweet Grown Alabama earlier this year unveiled a searchable database which members of the public can use to search for locally grown products in their area.
According to a release, PCI’s financial support will help Sweet Grown Alabama connect Alabama farmers and families. Funds will be utilized to encourage purchasing of locally grown products through traditional and digital marketing.
“This financial support from the Poarch Creek Indians will have a positive ripple effect on Alabama’s economy,” said Ellie Watson, Sweet Grown Alabama director. “The Tribe has a strong reputation of community support and economic development, and we are incredibly grateful for their sponsorship of Sweet Grown Alabama at the highest level.”
The tribe also has deep roots in agriculture. In fact, PCI’s Perdido River Farms is one of the largest cattle operations in the Yellowhammer State. In addition to operating this commercial cattle herd, Perdido River Farms supports youth agricultural programming through 4-H and sells Sweet Grown Alabama beef direct from the farm in Atmore.
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Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn
