New legislation would provide one-time grant funds (up to $100,000) for school districts establishing "farm-to-cafeteria" programs.
H.R. 2626, the "Farm-To-Cafeteria Projects Act of 2003," aims to enable schools to purchase equipment, provide staff training, conduct menu planning, locate sources of locally produced food, purchase food, and develop food and farm education programs for children. Such projects might include farm visits and school gardens.
Both bodies: The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI) and is co-sponsored by Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI). In the Senate, Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) has introduced a similar measure (S. 995).
Like the Fruit and Vegetable Pilot Program, which Congress wants to expand from four states to all 50, this program seeks to encourage consumption of fruits and vegetables in schools. In this case, the emphasis would be on locally grown produce and collaboration between farmers, schools and community organizations.