California's farm-to-school grants aid local farmers and schools
California has introduced a $14 million grant program to bolster farm-to-school initiatives, connecting local farms with school cafeterias. The effort aims to provide healthier meals for students while offering financial support to struggling farmers. Officials say it addresses ongoing agricultural challenges amid climate pressures.
In a move to strengthen ties between agriculture and education, the California Department of Education launched the Farm to School Grant Program in October 2023, allocating up to $14 million for the fiscal year. This initiative targets public schools, childcare centers, and early learning programs, enabling them to purchase fresh, local produce and invest in necessary kitchen equipment.
The program emerges as a vital support for small-scale farmers in California, who have faced severe setbacks from droughts, labor shortages, and economic volatility. According to the announcement, grants can cover costs for procuring California-grown fruits, vegetables, and other foods, as well as training staff on preparing farm-fresh meals. "This funding is a lifeline for family farms that have been hit hard by recent years' challenges," said Tom Muller, executive director of the California Farm to School Network, highlighting how the grants help sustain local economies.
Participation in farm-to-school efforts has surged in the state, with over 2,000 schools already sourcing local foods, serving more than 6 million students. The new grants build on prior federal and state funding, such as the USDA's Farm to School Grants, but focus specifically on California's unique agricultural landscape. Applications for the program opened in late 2023 and are set to close in early 2024, with awards prioritized for underserved communities and projects that emphasize equity and nutrition education.
State Superintendent Tony Thurmond emphasized the broader benefits: "By connecting students to the farms that feed them, we're not only improving school meals but also teaching the next generation about sustainable food systems." Early recipients include districts in rural areas like Fresno and urban centers like Los Angeles, where the grants will fund everything from salad bars to farmer visits in classrooms.
This program arrives at a critical time, as California's agricultural sector grapples with climate change impacts, including reduced water availability. By fostering direct farm-to-school partnerships, it aims to reduce food miles, support biodiversity, and ensure economic resilience for producers. While the full impact will unfold over the coming years, advocates view it as a model for other states seeking to integrate local agriculture into public nutrition programs.