Foundry Ministries to expand Cullman County program with $1M ARC grant

CULLMAN, Ala. – A $1 million federal grant will support expansion efforts at The Foundry Farm in Cullman County, with plans underway to construct a new multipurpose facility aimed at workforce training and addiction recovery services. 

The funding, awarded through the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), will go to Foundry Ministries for the development of an 11,400-square-foot building at the organization’s Cullman County site. 

According to project details, the new facility will include classroom and office space designed to support employment readiness programs, including culinary training.  

Organizers said the program is intended to help participants gain skills needed to fill available jobs in the local workforce. 

The project will also include site preparation, demolition, foundation work and structural construction. 

Officials said the expanded facility is expected to serve approximately 30 additional participants during its first year of operation. 

The Foundry Farm combines agricultural work, workforce development and addiction recovery programming, offering individuals an opportunity to rebuild stability while gaining job skills. 

The $1 million grant will be matched by an additional $1 million in local funding, bringing the total investment in the project to $2 million. 

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt, R-Alabama, said the investment supports both workforce development and recovery efforts in the region. 

“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,” Aderholt said. 

“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,” he said. 

ARC is a partnership between the federal government and 13 states focused on economic development and growth across the Appalachian region. 

The Foundry Farm is located at 575 County Road 1676 Cullman, AL 35058. Find out more at foundryministries.com/life-change-programs/the-foundry-farm.