$1.5 Million Boost: Mid Hudson Schools Revamp Menus with Fresh Local Food!

Supporting Local Agriculture

New York's commitment to enhancing its food system is shining through with the recent announcement by Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball. Sixteen organizations across the state, including several in the Mid Hudson region, have been awarded over $1.5 million through the Farm-to-School program. This initiative aims to connect local farms with schools, enriching K-12 menus with fresh, locally grown produce while promoting student health and economic benefits for New York farmers.

Enhancing School Nutrition

At a recent event at C R Weeks Elementary School in Windsor, Commissioner Ball emphasized the importance of sourcing local ingredients. The school's food service, supported by Broome-Tioga BOCES, received $100,000 to enhance its Farm-to-School program, featuring a taste test of an Apple Crisp Parfait made with New York-grown ingredients. This partnership exemplifies how schools can integrate local agriculture into their meal programs, fostering a connection between students and the food they eat.

Mid Hudson Initiatives

In the Mid Hudson area, two significant projects received funding. The Sullivan Catskills Regional Food Hub Inc. was awarded $97,804 to develop and test school food items made from local products in five schools. Meanwhile, the Poughkeepsie Farm Project received $100,000 to create an educational curriculum focused on local agriculture for three schools, further engaging students in understanding their food sources.

Long-Term Impact

These initiatives not only support healthier meal options but also strengthen the local agricultural economy by creating reliable markets for local farmers. As Erin Summerlee, Director of the Food and Health Network, noted, the Farm-to-School program nurtures connections between students, schools, and local farms, ensuring sustainable benefits for all parties involved.

The Farm-to-School program represents a significant step towards a healthier, more interconnected food system in New York. With ongoing support and innovative projects in the Mid Hudson region, students will gain access to nutritious, locally sourced meals, fostering a culture of health and awareness about local agriculture. As these programs expand, they promise to benefit not just students but also the community and local farmers.