Top 5 for Nov. 7: Organic news to help you grow

Hub International acquires Western Growers Insurance Services

Hub International’s purchase of Western Growers Association’s retail insurance business will benefit customers of both brands, according to a press release. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Read more at The Packer …

USDA, federal Reinvestment Fund increase access to healthy food

Through the Healthy Food Financing Initiative Planning Grant Program, farmers, retailers and organizations in the early stages of planning food access programs will be eligible for a share of $6 million. The grant program is designed to support new markets for diverse growers and help people access affordable, healthy foods. See more at USDA.gov …

113 projects receive USDA grants to expand local, regional food systems

The USDA has awarded more than $33.5 million to projects in 43 states to increase the availability of locally grown foods. These projects increase market opportunities for smaller producers and build resilience in the food system, said Jenny Lester Moffitt, an under secretary in the USDA. Get the details at Hortidaily …

Florida farms harvests first strawberries of the season

Wish Farms, which sustained damage from Hurricane Milton—which tossed a 20-foot-tall, 11,500-gallon tank nearly a mile away—is the first Florida farm to harvest strawberries this season. Learn more at Fresh Plaza …

Massachusetts makes drastic cuts to fresh produce assistance program

As of Dec. 1, families who receive state-funded food assistance will lose half or more of the extra money they’ve been receiving to purchase fresh, locally grown produce. Farmers and advocates are concerned about the effects. Find out more at WGBH.org …