USDA Grants Will Connect Local Farmers to School Cafeterias

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced this week the awarding of several grants that support efforts to connect school cafeterias with local farmers and ranchers. More than $5 million in grants were awarded to 82 projects spanning 42 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands. “USDA is proud to support communities across the country as they plan and implement innovative farm to school projects,” said Vilsack. “These inspiring collaborations provide students with healthy, fresh food, while supporting healthy local economies. Through farm to school projects, community partners are coming together to ensure a bright future for students, and for local farmers and ranchers.” According to USDA’s first-ever Farm to School Census released earlier this year, school districts participating in farm to school programs purchased and served over $385 million in local food in school year 2011-2012, with more than half of participating schools planning to increase their purchases of local food in the future. Read more or review the Farm to School Census