The Virginia Farm-to-School program promotes opportunities for schools, distributors and growers to work together to increase the volume of locally grown foods served in school cafeterias and dining halls at all levels of education. Benefits include fresh and nutritious meal options for Virginia students, community interest in Virginia Grown products and increased market opportunities for farmers. Students learn about the seasonality of food products, the importance of supporting local agriculture and the benefits associated with reducing transportation costs and protecting farmland.
Virginia was one of the first states to establish a Farm-to-School taskforce in 2007. In 2009, the first Virginia Farm-to-School Week took place.
For information on Virginia’s Farm-to-School program or to connect with local school, farms or distribution resources, please contact the Office of Promotions at the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
October 3-7, 2016
The first full week of October is designated as Virginia Farm-to-School Week by the Virginia General Assembly. Each year, many schools across the Commonwealth celebrate Farm-to-School Week with local food tastings and menus, guest speakers, school garden harvests and educational activities that emphasize food, farming and nutrition.
Contact
Leanne DuBois
P.O. Box 1163
Richmond VA 23218
804.225.3663
leanne.dubois@vdacs.virginia.gov
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