The Farm to School program partners local farms with K-12 schools to provide Florida children with nourishing, locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables in school cafeterias.
Every year, Florida schools spend millions of dollars for fresh produce. The Farm to School program allows more of those dollars to stay within Florida. It also supports Florida farmers by promoting opportunities for schools and growers to work together to increase the volume of locally grown produce that is served in school cafeterias and dining halls. Incorporating locally grown produce into school meals also supports local economies, reduces transportation costs and helps to preserve farms and farmland.
The partnership encourages nutrition and agriculture education through taste tests, school gardens, composting programs and farm tours—initiatives that also support local and regional farmers. These experiences help children understand where their food comes from and how their food choices affect their bodies, environment and community.