Farm to School Program helps local farmers

One way to help the community, the economy and the environment is to support programs like Farm to School by purchasing produce from local farmers, many of whom are people of color and women who practice climate-friendly agriculture, and receive state subsidies.

The program, also known as “farm to school,” has a nationwide presence and aims to enrich the connection communities have with fresh, healthy food that is brought to schools.

Miguel Villarreal, Interim Co-Executive Director, Farm to School National Network, discusses why the farm to school program is important and where the impacts of these actions are being seen.

Miguel Villareal explains that the organization is national, promotes local foods and has a presence throughout the United States.

In addition, he says that there are many allied organizations and anyone can become a member to support this type of project.

He also highlights the impact of this program in school districts.

Miguel Villarreal, Interim Co-Executive Director, National Farm to School Network, says that he is working with a network to help schools and the community.

He stresses that it is very important for schools to bring healthy food to their cafeterias for students.

Miguel Villareal reminds us that states and cities across the country are looking at the impact of the farm-to-school program on health, education and resilience to climate change.

This feature is produced in part by The Walton Family Foundation and is part of the When the Creek Dries Up series.