Getting local food into schools has proven frustratingly complicated in the US. And while up-to-date data on the reach of farm-to-school activity is lacking, it’s clear that there’s still lots of untapped potential for growth when it comes to getting farm fresh foods into school cafeterias. Tapping that potential has recently gained new urgency at the federal level.
Since 2013, the USDA has funneled about $84 million to states for funding general farm-to-school programming. Then, last school year, the Department dramatically increased its spending for Farm to School programs. At least $200 million directly funds local food purchases and an additional $60 million is earmarked to fund related farm-to-school infrastructure, coordination, and technical assistance.
Both pools of money give states lots of flexibility to decide how to deploy the funds in a way that works well for local conditions. And even more money supports local food programming in schools indirectly. Local growers should focus on tapping into these programs to be able to sell their produce.
Source: tspr.org
