SPRINGFIELD — The Massachusetts Farm Resiliency Fund, which was developed in partnership with the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts (CFWM) in response to widespread flooding that swept over more than 100 Massachusetts farms in the region this past summer, announced that $3,255,997 has been distributed to 228 farms throughout the Commonwealth as of Dec. 4.

CFWM was joined in launching the Farm Resiliency Fund with the Healey-Driscoll administration, United Way of Central Massachusetts, Community involved in Sustainable Agriculture (CISA), and other philanthropic and private foundations to support Massachusetts farms impacted by severe weather patterns.

The fund is administered by the United Way, and CFWM serves on the regional advisory group for Western Mass. that helps connect the fund to local farms. In addition to responding to the recent storm impact in Western and Central Mass., the fund intends to have long-term potential to respond to how climate affects farms.

In August, the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources estimated that at least 148 farms had been impacted by flooding, with more than 2,700 acres in crop losses at a minimum value of $15 million at that time. There are 7,241 farms in Massachusetts, comprising 491,653 acres and employing 25,920 people. These farms generate $475 million for the Massachusetts economy.

Meant to enhance the abilities of farms to recover from harvest losses, damaged infrastructure, and reduced income due to climate extremes, the fund provides immediate relief but also facilitates long-term solutions that bolster agricultural communities against the impact of changing climate.

“Our partnership and our communities quickly came together to respond to our farms’ significant losses,” CFWM CEO Megan Burke said. “We are grateful for the hundreds of donors that have given to the Massachusetts Farm Resiliency Fund in support of our hardworking farmers. The severe weather patterns affecting our farms ultimately impact our local food systems and employment, making the fund’s impact far-reaching.”

Philip Korman, executive director of CISA, added that, “every day, no matter the weather, local farmers work hard growing food for our communities. This year, the fruits of their efforts were wiped out on hundreds of farms due to the floods and rains. With the distribution of over $3 million raised from across the Commonwealth — from individuals, foundations, business partners, and nonprofits — we have all helped to keep farmers farming and to keep feeding us all. It is vital and heartening for farmers to know that they are respected and supported for their work, especially in the worst of times. CISA is immensely grateful and proud to have been involved in this effort.”

EASTHAMPTON — The Healey-Driscoll administration and the United Way of Central Massachusetts (UWCM) announced the creation of the Massachusetts Farm Resiliency Fund, a partnership between philanthropic organizations and private foundations intended to support Western and Central Mass. farms impacted by recent flooding and strengthen farm resiliency in the long term. Officials made the announcement Thursday at Mountain View Farm in Easthampton, which had much of its crop destroyed by flooding.

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources estimates at least 75 farms have been hurt by flooding, with about 2,000 acres in crop losses at a minimum value of $15 million. That number will likely climb as more damage is assessed and the longer-term impacts set in.

“As the lieutenant governor and I have visited farms across the state, we’ve been deeply moved by the devastating impacts we’ve seen and heartbreaking stories we’ve heard,” Healey said. “We’re grateful to our philanthropic and private partners for quickly answering the call to action and creating this fund to deliver relief directly to farmers. This is about team Massachusetts, where we come together to support farmers and their livelihoods, build resilience for our farms and food supply, strengthen our economy, and create a stronger future for our children and families.”

Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Commissioner Ashley Randle added that, “for generations, our farms have been part of our cultural heritage and the fabric of our local communities. As heartbreaking as it has been to see our farming community hit hard this past week, I’m truly inspired to see the community step up and rally around our farmers with this partnership that will bring much-needed relief.”

To ensure farmers can begin recovery as quickly as possible, all funds will be distributed rapidly by the United Way through a deliberate selection process. Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell and private foundations, including the Eastern States Exposition, Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, and Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture, have already announced their support.

“The Massachusetts Farm Resiliency Fund is a most beautiful demonstration of real partnership, united in compassion and united in purpose to support and assist our farmers,” said Tim Garvin, president and CEO of United Way of Central Massachusetts. “We at United Way are proud to be partners in this effort. We are hopeful that many will be inspired to contribute.”