The Patrick Leahy Farm to School Program | Food and Nutrition Service

Connecting Kids and Farmers

The Patrick Leahy Farm to School Program helps child nutrition program operators incorporate local foods in the National School Lunch Program, the Summer Food Service Program the Child and Adult Care Food Program and all associated programs. In addition, USDA staff work with tribal communities by promoting food sovereignty and the integration of traditional food ways into tribal meal programs.

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State/Local Agency Program Operator Farmer/Producer

Farm to school makes local food and agricultural education available to child nutrition program participants through grants, research, technical assistance, and training.

USDA has released the findings of the 2023 Farm to School Census! The Census findings show that farm to school is going strong. In school year 2022-23, 74% of school food authorities reported engaging in farm to school activities. Explore the findings and report and learn how to discuss the results in your community with our partner resources.

summary graphic from 2023 farm to school census outcomes

The Dirt

Farm to school needs to benefit everyone touched by the food system. Learn how USDA is working with the National Farm to School Network through a cooperative agreement.

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I'm New to Farm to School

I'm New to Farm to School is a place full of resources to help you to get your farm to school program growing.

Patrick Leahy Farm to School Program Cooperative Agreements

Farm to School Resources

Farm to School Planning Toolkit

Procuring Local Foods

Farm to School Fact Sheets

The Dirt: Farm to School e-Newsletter

Staff Contact Information