JEFFERSON CITY – State leaders are offering a Missouri Meat & Poultry Processing Grant to increase food supply chain resilience in our state. The General Assembly allocated $20 million in CARES Act funds for meat and poultry establishments that employ fewer than 200 people. The aim is to increase meat processing and promote worker safety during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The grant offers up to $200,000 for each state and federally inspected establishment that also conducts slaughter. Establishments that further process meat and poultry products, but do not conduct slaughter, qualify for up to $100,000. Custom-exempt establishments may receive up to $20,000. Grants cover March 1 through Nov. 15. “Every part of our food system was challenged during COVID-19,” Agriculture Director Chris Chinn said. “These funds will be put to work in our local communities to address the unmet needs of our small business community, benefiting both producers and consumers.” Eligible expenses…