Schools

Which Minnesota Schools Will Get a Farm to School Grant?

Applications are being accepted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture through Nov. 1 for schools to apply for the grant funding.

Lunches in several Minnesota schools are receiving a local flavor by using produce grown in the community as part of the Farm to Schools program.

A second round of grants, through the Agricultural Growth Research and Innovation Fund, could bring the program to more Twin Cities schools.

Thirteen school districts in Minnesota received about $227,000 in grant funding through the Farm To Schools program in 2012. The funds were used to “buy produce from local farmers and to offset the costs of purchasing new equipment necessary to prepare, serve and preserve more Minnesota grown foods,” according to the Minnesota Department of Education.

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Commissioners from the Minnesota Departments of Education, Agriculture and Health visited two of the schools, Hopkins West Junior High and Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis, last week to see the program in action. Other schools awarded grants in 2012 included District 191 Burnsville-Eagan-Savage, Upper Mississippi Academy School District in Big Lake, Saint Paul Public Schools and several school districts in greater Minnesota.

“Nutritious eating habits are learned, and it is exciting to see so many schools embracing farm fresh produce in their kitchens,” said Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius.

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A second round of Farm to School grants was announced Sept. 20 by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Schools interested in learning more about the Farm to School Grant Program and application details can find information on the MDA website The application deadline is Nov. 1, 2013.

“Farm to School keeps dollars in the local economy, and creates jobs,” said Agriculture Commissioner Dave Frederickson. “When schools and students connect with rural family farmers, urban growers and multicultural farmers markets, everyone benefits.”

In addition to the grants being offered by MDA, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota provided $117,000 in matching funds last year, and has committed up to $125,000 for the next round of grants.

Video above: Commissioners from the Minnesota Departments of Education, Agriculture and Health at Hopkins West Junior High. (Credit: James Warden)


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