U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke L. Rollins announced the second cohort of fiscal year (FY) 2026 Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grants, completing the largest ever single-year financial investment in the history of the grant program. This year, USDA awarded a total of nearly $20 million to 68 projects that will empower more American farmers, producers, ranchers, and fishers to serve their local foods in school meals, summer meals, and childcare settings.
“Without a doubt, farm to school is one of the most powerful ways to Make America Healthy Again by bringing real food back to the heart of America’s food culture and onto kids’ lunch trays,” said Secretary Rollins. “Our historic investment in farm to school projects is a win-win-win for kids, farmers, and communities – students are nourished with farm-fresh, nutrient-rich foods; producers access dependable markets through schools; and local economies are strengthened. USDA is committed to putting American agriculture at the center of our nutrition programs and that starts with our children.”
The Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grant Program increases the availability of local foods in child nutrition programs and connects children to the sources of their food through local procurement, education, taste tests, school gardens, and field trips.
Source : usda.gov