Farm To School Program

BRINGING FARM-TO-SCHOOL TO KALAMAZOO  

The Farm-to-School program is part of the federal student lunch program designed to bring more locally grown food into our school cafeterias.  Currently existing in over 400 school districts in 22 states, the program shifts federal money currently spent on food commodities from large, national distributors to local farms.  Kalamazoo County schools represent a largely untapped market for food producers and marketers, giving way to many opportunities.  First, growing and distributing locally will create and maintain jobs right here in southwest Michigan.  Second, local distribution means lower transportation costs and less pollution.  It also ensures that money spent by the school district actually stays here.   Most importantly, it means providing wholesome and nutritious meals to thousands children who may otherwise not get one.

Children consume nearly forty percent of their food calories at school, and while over 12% of Michigan’s K-12 students are overweight it is crucial that what they eat is healthy and nutritious.  Unfortunately what is served in most school lunchrooms, Kalamazoo being no exception, exceeds the federal nutritional guidelines for sodium, saturated fat, and sugars, while falling short of providing adequate amounts of things like whole grains and green vegetables.

With community support, local growers, and creativity, Kalamazoo Public Schools is ready to begin what other districts, such as Lakeview Schools in Battle Creek and Benzie Schools in Leelanau County have already been so successful at.  Farm-to-School can not only provide more nutritious meals, but also help teach our children the critical relationship between the health of our food, our community, and our ecosystem for all living organisms.

Please help us move forward with these efforts by attending a group discussion being held April 22nd at 7pm at the KCDP Headquarters.  The objective of this forum will be to further discuss Farm-to-School objectives and share ideas on how to move forward. 

For more information please contact Kelly Vallelunga (903-7706), or Laurie Terlesky (271-5217). 

KCDP Headquarters: 342-4217