By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has awarded more than $1.3 million to support Farm to School and Early Care programs. These funds aim to help schools and childcare providers purchase more locally grown and raised foods across the state.
“Since becoming Commissioner in 2019, the MDA has awarded more than $9 million through Farm to School grants and cost-share funding,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. “These investments create new market opportunities for Minnesota farmers and give Minnesota kids access to local meals that support their learning, growth, and understanding of where their food comes from.”
The MDA received more than $2.1 million in funding requests. Out of this, $1,154,532 was awarded to 59 school districts and 11 early childhood education centers in 40 counties. This includes $137,464 for equipment that supports farm school programs.
Grant recipients were selected under two categories.
- The First Bite Grant supports schools and centers new to local food purchasing.
- The Full Tray Grant helps those with some experience to expand their efforts.
Individual grants ranged from $2,500 to $30,000. With matching contributions, total local food investment will exceed $1.9 million, strengthening the local food system.
Additionally, over $199,000 was distributed to 311 family daycare providers through the Local Tots Cost-Share program. Each provider received up to $647 to improve meals with Minnesota-grown foods.
A complete list of grant recipients and Local Tots Cost-Share participants is available on the Farm to School and Early Care programs webpage. The funding is provided through the MDA’s Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) program, which supports farmers, agribusinesses, schools, and other organizations across Minnesota to strengthen agriculture and promote renewable energy development.
These programs help students eat healthier, learn about agriculture, and build stronger community connections across Minnesota.
Photo Credit: minnesota-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Minnesota, Education, General, Government & Policy