Farm-to-School Program Applications Now Open

The USDA is continuing its support for local foods in schools by opening applications for the 2025 Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grants.  For the first time, USDA is allowing organizations to select the type of Farm to School Grant that best fits their needs by offering three different requests for applications.

• The Implementation Grant supports establishing or expanding comprehensive farm-to-school projects.
• The State Agency Grant helps state-level agencies implement local sourcing and agricultural education activities.
• The Turnkey Grant is for organizations interested in projects related to launching or enhancing farm-to-school activities, agriculture education, or edible gardens.  

 Nationwide, K-12 schools serve meals to about 30 million children every school days.  USDA points out these meals "provide critical nutrition to children" and "the foundation of the nation to have a healthier future".  When local foods are incorporated into meals, it benefits the students, supply chains, and producers.

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