Farm to School Program
What is Farm to School?
The New York State Farm to School program was created to connect schools and students with local farms and producers. Not only does this support local farmers, but it provides healthy food choices in schools and strengthens the local economy.
Farm fresh food enhances the quality of school meals, introduces students to new foods and offers districts an added cost savings through its 30% initiative.
30% Initiative
In 2018, New York State passed a law that increased state reimbursement for the purchase of New York State food products for school lunch programs. Specifically, school food authorities (SFAs) that spend at least 30 percent of total food costs for the lunch program on NYS food products in the preceding year are eligible for additional state reimbursement.
Partnerships
The Farm to School program operates in partnership with the Cornell Cooperative Extension of St. Lawrence County and Big Spoon Kitchen. Through a state grant we are able to purchase locally grown foods from 25 producers and growers in the region.
"This program is mutually beneficial for farmers, school districts, our local economy, and most importantly, the students we serve each day. We are able to utilize available resources to develop a systemic approach to processing crops in a way that each district is able to procure and emulate." -Artie Frego, Director of Food Services at St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES
Our Farm Partners
St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES is proud to partner with farms and vendors across New York state to bring farm-fresh and wholesome foods into 22 of our school districts.
Thank you to our incredible partners for helping feed our students local and delicious foods!
