The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is opening applications for the 2025 Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grants to support local foods in schools. For the first time, applicants can choose from three types of grants that best fit their needs, but they may only apply for one:
- Implementation Grant ($50,000–$500,000) supports starting or expanding farm-to-school projects.
- State Agency Grant ($50,000–$500,000) helps state agencies with local food sourcing and agricultural education.
- Turnkey Grant ($5,000–$50,000) supports beginning or enhancing farm-to-school activities like gardens or agricultural education.
The USDA’s web page with more information on this topic can be found here. Applications are due by January 10, 2025.
Nationwide, about 30 million students receive school meals daily, which are essential for their nutrition and health. Adding local foods to these meals not only improves nutrition but also strengthens local food chains and supports American farmers.
In 2024, USDA awarded $14.3 million in Farm to School Grants, funding 154 projects across 43 states, Washington D.C., Guam, and Puerto Rico. These programs help 1.9 million students access more nutritious food options while supporting local farmers.
Farm-to-school programs offer more than meals; they include activities like school gardens, farm visits, and taste-testing new foods, providing hands-on learning for students. The USDA Farm to School Census shows participation in farm-to-school programs has grown 14% since 2019. Schools in all types of communities, including those with many low-income students, are participating.
Farm-to-school efforts are community-centered, with increased student involvement in meal programs and collaboration among schools, communities, and food providers. Learn more about farm-to-school programs and their impact through USDA’s reports and the Farm to School Census website.
