Community Food Systems

IATP's Community Food Systems program is helping revitalize local economies, give farmers stable and predictable income through the buying power of institutions, like school districts and hospitals, and get fresh and healthy local food to students and communities. We are currently developing a model project for Farm to Head Start purchasing to put good food into the hands of underserved young children, because lifelong learning requires lifelong healthy eating. 

Governor Dayton: September is Farm to School Month in Minnesota

Farm to School in Minnesota has been continually growing, and now it's been recognized by the state for its importance to students and local farmers. Last Thursday, Governor Dayton declared September Farm to School Month in Minnesota. The proclamation request was initiated by IATP as part of its ongoing Farm to School efforts.

Grower Perspectives on Farm to School in Minnesota

As part of our work on Farm to School, the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP) conducted an electronic survey of growers interested in Farm to School in Spring 2011. The survey was designed to assess growers’ perceptions of Farm to School, interest levels, challenges, aspirations and strategies that could enable growers to benefit more fully from this growing market.

Minnesota school districts to showcase local food and farmers during Farm to School Week

Minneapolis – Schools throughout Minnesota will showcase fresh, locally grown foods and their relationships with nearby farmers during the first annual Farm to School Week. Farm to School Week, which runs from September 20–24, is designed to increase awareness about the multiple benefits of rapidly growing Farm to School initiatives throughout the state.

Farm to school efforts double in Minnesota: Demand from students, farmers and schools grows for farm to school programs

Minneapolis – The number of Minnesota school districts purchasing fresh food from local farms has more than doubled in the last 15 months, according to a survey released today by the Minnesota School Nutrition Association (MSNA) and the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP).
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