Governor Cuomo Tuesday announced $350,000 is now available in program funding to connect New York schools with local farms.
The farm-to-school program’s goal is to increase the use of locally grown food in lunch programs serving pre-kindergarten students through high school seniors. Cuomo called the program a “win-win,” as it helps out both the local farmers and school districts they work with.
“By providing funding for key projects like training and equipment, we can help strengthen our agriculture industry and build a healthier New York," Cuomo said in a statement.
Applicants for the grant can include charter and non-for-profit schools, as well as schools participating in the National School Lunch or Breakfast and Summer Foodservice Programs. The deadline to apply is October 19. The winners will be announced in November.
The state of Minnesota is also offering $500,000 in grants to schools in an effort to get more produce, fruits and vegetables on school-lunch menus, as reported by FoodService Director.