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Cullman Today
By the People, for the People
Foundry Ministries Secures $1M Grant for Cullman County Expansion
The funding will support a new multipurpose facility for workforce training and addiction recovery services.
Apr. 2, 2026 at 2:54pm
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Foundry Ministries, a nonprofit organization in Cullman County, Alabama, has been awarded a $1 million federal grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to expand its operations at The Foundry Farm. The new 11,400-square-foot facility will include classroom and office space for employment readiness programs, including culinary training, to help participants gain skills needed for local job opportunities. The project will also support site preparation, demolition, and construction, and is expected to serve approximately 30 additional participants in its first year.
Why it matters
The Foundry Farm's unique approach combines agricultural work, workforce development, and addiction recovery programming, providing individuals with an opportunity to rebuild stability and gain valuable job skills. This expansion, supported by the ARC grant and additional local funding, will allow the organization to serve more people in the region, addressing both workforce needs and supporting those struggling with addiction.
The details
The $1 million ARC grant will be matched by an additional $1 million in local funding, bringing the total investment in the project to $2 million. The new facility will include classroom and office space designed to support employment readiness programs, including culinary training, to help participants gain the skills needed to fill available jobs in the local workforce. The project will also include site preparation, demolition, foundation work, and structural construction.
- The $1 million ARC grant was awarded in April 2026.
- The new 11,400-square-foot facility is expected to be operational within the first year of the grant.
The players
Foundry Ministries
A nonprofit organization in Cullman County, Alabama, that combines agricultural work, workforce development, and addiction recovery programming.
Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)
A partnership between the federal government and 13 states focused on economic development and growth across the Appalachian region.
Robert Aderholt
U.S. Representative for Alabama's 4th congressional district, who praised the investment for supporting both workforce development and recovery efforts in the region.
What they’re saying
“This investment will help ensure our local workforce has the skills and people needed to fill jobs while supporting those looking to rebuild their lives. Not only is this creating long-term prosperity, economic and workforce development across the region, but it is helping change the future of those who struggle with addiction.”
— Robert Aderholt, U.S. Representative
What’s next
The new 11,400-square-foot facility at The Foundry Farm is expected to be operational within the first year of the $1 million ARC grant, serving approximately 30 additional participants during its initial year of operation.
The takeaway
The Foundry Farm's innovative approach to combining workforce development and addiction recovery services has received a significant boost with this $1 million ARC grant, allowing the organization to expand its impact and serve more individuals in need of support and job skills training in the Cullman County region.
