MONTGOMERY– Governor Kay Ivey has proclaimed October as Farm to School Month in Alabama. The observance highlights the Alabama Farm to School Program’s connections among farmers, schools, and students.
According to the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, schools have spent $5,908,487.44 purchasing food from local farmers since October 2020. They have also served 14,332,643 meals featuring Alabama products during that period.
Meanwhile, the Alabama Legislature has provided $2.195 million for the program’s purchasing incentives since October 2020.
Connecting Cafeterias and Farms
The department’s Farm to School Program connects schools with local farmers to bring Alabama-grown products into cafeterias. It also encourages school gardens, farm field trips, and classroom activities that teach agricultural awareness and healthy eating.
“Farm to School is about more than putting Alabama-grown food on the lunch tray,” Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate said.
Pate said the program helps students understand where their food comes from while creating another market for Alabama farmers. He also recognized the farmers, educators, and school nutrition staff who bring agriculture into students’ daily lives.
Throughout October, schools across Alabama will host special events, classroom activities, and hands-on learning experiences, according to the department.
Supporting Alabama Farmers
Farmers Market Authority Interim Director Beth Spratt said the program’s impact extends beyond cafeterias. She also said local purchases create opportunities for farmers and keep more food dollars in Alabama.
Spratt also thanked Ivey and the Legislature for funding incentives that encourage schools to buy locally.
The observance recognizes farmers who grow the food, school staff who bring it to students’ plates, and students who benefit.
For additional information and resources, visit the Alabama Farm to School website.
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