Rachael Ray's Non-profit Organization Yum-o!

Farm to School

Farm to School programs connect schools with local farms with the objectives of serving healthy meals in school cafeterias, improving student nutrition, providing health and nutrition education opportunities that will last a lifetime and supporting local small farmers.

Schools buy and feature farm fresh foods such as fruits and vegetables, eggs, honey, meat and beans on their menus; incorporate nutrition-based curriculum; and provide students experiential learning opportunities through farm visits, gardening and recycling programs. Farmers have access to a new market through schools and connect to their community through participation in programs designed to educate kids about local food and sustainable agriculture.

By providing healthier options in school cafeterias and through education that connects the food in the cafeteria to farms and health, children can better relate to how their food choices affect their own health, their family and the local farmer.

The Farm to School website features an interactive map for each of the states with active farm to school programs. For example, click on California on the map, and you can search for policies, farmers, media coverage, funding opportunities and involved groups specific to the state. In addition, their Farm to School Forum offers resources to help you get started and an opportunity to learn and share best practices with other participants. Now is the time to connect your school with your local farming community – get started today!