The USDA Farm to School service seeks to improve access to local, nutritious food in schools. 

General About the Organization/Mission

The USDA Farm to School program seeks to connect small farmers with school meal programs. The organization strives to provide nutritious and regionally-sourced food to schools and students. In an effort to raise awareness and implementation of the program, there are grant opportunities to help interested parties begin with a Farm to School program on a local level.

Basic Info

Issues of Focus

This organization is focused primarily on ensuring that students in school systems nationwide have continued access to local, nutritious food while they attend these institutions. 

History of Organization

The USDA Farm to School program started in 1997 as an effort to connect small farms to school meal programs. In 2005, Farm to School released a series of publications on the program and has been operating since. 

Programs and Projects 

The Farm to School program provides grants each year that allows school systems to contract with local and regional farmers in their area. In order to research the effectiveness of these programs, the organization also conducts research and creates a census of students who are benefiting from these programs. In addition, the program provides hands-on learning opportunities where possible. 

Partners and Frequent Collaborators

• Agricultural Marketing Service 
• Know your Farmer, Know your Food
• Cooperative Extension Office
• USDA Food Hubs
• Food Environment Atlas 

Future Developments for This Wiki

This wiki could benefit from a summary of current grant programs and efforts with the organization.