Written by Theresa Hunt
As Farm to School Month comes to a close, we want to highlight all the positive impacts it has had on communities across the U.S. The purpose of Farm to School is to enrich the connection communities have with fresh, healthy food and local food producers by changing food purchasing and educational practices at schools and early care and education settings. Students gain access to healthy, local foods as well as educational opportunities such as school gardens, cooking lessons, and farm field trips. Farm to School empowers children and their families to make informed food choices while strengthening the local economy and contributing to vibrant communities.
The National Farm to School Network has developed a comprehensive calendar featuring events across various communities that celebrate aspects of National Farm to School Month. Some events listed have fun, exciting names that pique children’s interest and encourage excitement about learning local food systems in an interactive way. Examples of these events include “Louisiana Farm to School Challenge – Lettuce Try It” and “ParSLAY the Day!” Dedicating a month to this incredible movement helps teach young children the importance of food education.
Along with these fun events in October, there are other ways for children to stay engaged in celebrating Farm to School Month, such as the youth art contest. This contest invites participants aged 22 and under to show off their creativity and style while adhering to this year’s theme, “From Soil to Sea: Nourishing People and Planet.” Art serves as another way to teach food systems education and empower children and their families to make informed food choices.
The National Farm to School Network conducts many activities throughout the year, but during October, they can focus their outreach for Farm to School Month. Farm to School has had a significant impact on communities by promoting, purchasing, and serving local foods in cafeterias or as snacks. Their work enables students to engage in hands-on learning through gardening and educational activities related to agriculture, food, health, and nutrition. Farm to School month can foster lifelong healthy habits and community engagement as it continues to reach more communities every year. Visit the Farm to School Network to explore resources, get involved, and help this impactful program continue to grow.
Resources:
- Farm to School Network Resources
- Farm to Early Care and Education Resource Directory
- Getting Started with Farm to School: Resource Directory
- Advocating for Farm to School: How to Host a Site Visit
- 2023 USDA Farm to School Census Resources
