Agenda - 08-19-2003-6a - Laserfiche WebLink

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transitioning from tobacco to new crops and value-added products have been addressed through a new program provided by Orange County Economic Development and the Cooperative Extension Service. The Orange County Farms program was designed to document, compile and distribute information to help farmers attract local buyers for their farm products and services. The program began with a survey of more than 100 farmers. The survey recorded: (a) The products and services provided by each farm; (b) Where and when these products and services were available; and (c) Contact information (so that interested buyers could reach the farmers). This information was initially compiled in a written guide: Local Harvest, A Guide to Farm Producfs and Services, 2002. In an effort to make the information more widely accessible, the information was later transformed into a website, http://www.orangecountyfarms.org. The website has all of the information found in the original guide, but with many advantages and enhancements. The website allows users to more timely updates of information, and greatly reduces the cost of distribution. Dr. Fletcher Barber, Jr., Director of the Cooperative Extension Service, Orange County Chapter, and Dianne Reid, Orange County Economic Development Director, will be present to receive the award. (3) Wheels for Work Program -The Wheels for Work Program is an innovative County government effort that addresses the challenges expressed in the 1996 federal welfare reform law by providing work-related transportation to low-income families. The program increases the County's delivery of human services by offering its individual, low-income citizens with an opportunity to receive and maintain a vehicle with a minimal, affordable investment and low monthly payments. The Wheels for Work Program is the result of a partnership formed between the Orange County Human Rights & Relations Department, the Department of Social Services, the Department on Aging & Transportation, and TROSA, a local non-profit organization. FINANCIAL IMPACT: None RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board present the awards to staff.