HF2049/SF1657 would reimburse schools and early care settings around the state for purchasing local foods, and provide technical assistance to districts, farmers and businesses who want to start or improve a Farm to School or Early Care program. Farm to School is a coalition of farm, health, education, business, and local advocates dedicated to establishing statewide Farm to School policy, which develops new markets for MN farmers by providing school children more fruits, vegetables, meat, grain and dairy for MN school children.
MN is one of only 12 states without a statewide policy in place.
The lack of coordination and support means our state is missing out on key economic development opportunities, education and health.
Read more about the priorities below:
“Praesent id libero id metus varius consectetur ac eget diam. Nulla felis nunc, consequat laoreet lacus id.”
priority #1
Maintain Farm to School success within the Agricultural Growth, Research and Innovation Program (AGRI).
Priority #2
Reimburse sponsors of USDA child nutrition programs on average 5 cents per meal for purchasing Minnesota grown whole or minimally processed food. Establish a Farm to School Coordinator for support and technical assistance.
Priority #3
Fund two outreach educators and one technical specialist in Extension to provide research-based education and technical assistance to MN’s farmers interested in selling their products to MN schools, focusing on beginning, specialty crop, and small to mid-sized producers.