The Virginia Farm to School Program is transforming school cafeterias by connecting students,
schools, and local farmers. This initiative provides fresh, locally grown food to students
across all educational levels while supporting local agriculture. By integrating Virginia
Grown products into school meals, students not only enjoy nutritious food, but they also
learn about food seasonality, the environmental benefits of supporting local farmers, and
the importance of reducing transportation and protecting farmland.
Virginia led the charge in establishing the Farm to School Taskforce in 2007. The state took
another significant step in 2009 by celebrating its first Virginia Farm to School Week.
These early initiatives have paved the way for increased collaboration between schools and
local farmers, encouraging a culture of healthy eating and sustainable agriculture.
The Virginia Farm to School Program fosters relationships between local farmers, food
distributors, and educational institutions. The Office of Food Distribution plays a central
role in connecting these groups, making it easy for farmers to sell their produce, meats,
and products to schools, and for schools to purchase fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
How Can You Get Involved?
- Farmers and Producers: Interested in selling your products to schools?
- Schools and Distributors: Looking to purchase local produce for your
cafeterias?
For more information or to get connected with schools, farms, or distribution partners, reach
out to Jose Millan,
Program Manager, Office of Food Distribution.
Every October, Virginia celebrates National Farm to School Month with the "Crunch Heard
'Round the Commonwealth." This fun and engaging event raises awareness about the Virginia
Farm to School Program and encourages students, schools, and communities to participate. The
event highlights the importance of:
- Eating Healthy
- Supporting Local Farmers
- Learning About Apples
- Celebrating Local Foods
Virginia’s apple orchards are a key part of the state’s agricultural heritage, and during the
Crunch event, students get the chance to enjoy and learn about the diverse varieties of
apples grown in Virginia. The event promotes not only healthy eating but also the value of
supporting local apple growers and enjoying the season’s freshest produce.
In partnership with the Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community
Nutrition Programs (VDOE-SCNP), the ninth annual Crunch Heard ’Round the Commonwealth will
take place during Virginia Farm to School Week on Thursday, October 9,
2025. Across the Commonwealth, Virginians will make some noise for farm to
school programs by taking a bite out of a fresh, Virginia grown apple on the same day.
All Virginians are encouraged to participate. The “Crunch” may be celebrated at any location
(e.g. classroom, cafeteria, early care education site, adult day care program, farm, office,
outdoors, at home in a virtual learning setting, etc.).
Register and download the 2025 Crunch Toolkit
For more information, please email Sara Hazan, VDOE-SCNP Farm to School Specialist, at Sara.Hazan@doe.virginia.gov.
Are you part of a school division that participates in the Crunch Heard ‘Round the
Commonwealth? Share your celebration with the world by using these hashtags on social media:
- #VACrunch
- #VAFarmToSchool
Keisha Williams
804.786.2776
Keisha.Williams@vdacs.virginia.gov