NC partnership connects local farmers to school meals
Gov. Roy Cooper on Tuesday will announce a statewide grant that will not only help schools but local farmers as well.
Cooper will visit Bethesda Elementary School in Durham to introduce the Farm to School grant, an initiative from the state Department of Agriculture to incorporates local foods in school meal programs.
He'll make remarks at 10 a.m. along with school cafeteria professionals, students and state and federal leaders.
The grant will provide fresh and nutritious foods for students, creating smarter eating habits, while connecting farmers to schools and keeping money local.
Representatives from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will join Cooper to announce how the grant will be used not just locally but statewide.
Last week, officials announced children at more than 230 N.C. elementary schools will have an extra opportunity to try a healthy snack during their school day.
According to the N.C. Department of Instruction, 232 schools have been selected for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, which begins this year.
Schools selected for the program generally have a high proportion of families struggling economically who are less likely to serve fresh fruits and vegetables at home.
The healthy snacks will be served separate from school breakfasts and lunches. Students will receive the snack either mid-morning or mid-afternoon.
Several area school systems—including those in Wake, Durham and Johnston counties—raised school meal prices this year, and more are considering increases.
