Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb: “Cleveland is proud to see Cleveland Metropolitan School District’s farm-to-school program expanding and making a difference in the lives of our students. Learning from innovative models like California’s helps guide our efforts to source and provide fresh, locally sourced meals. The Climate Mayors will continue to champion farm-to-school programs—not just for the environment and the economy, but for our children, who are the future of our cities and communities.”
In tandem with California’s first-in-the-nation Universal School Meals initiative, which provides students with two free meals each day, California Farm to School has become a national model.
The program also aligns closely with the leadership of U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, who has championed farm-to-school initiatives as a cornerstone of efforts to strengthen local food systems and support small and underserved farmers. His advocacy underscores the importance of strategic investments in local food systems to create healthier school environments, fortify rural economies, and reduce food insecurity.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack: “USDA celebrates First Partner Newsom and California’s commitment to the farm-to-school programs that nourish children, support local farmers, and promote healthy eating. With leadership like the state of California and the Climate Mayors network, we’re building a future nation where every child has access to fresh, healthy meals and the opportunity to thrive—in the classroom, and beyond.”
Key findings from a recent evaluation of California Farm to School include:
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57% of participating California Farm to School farmer grantees increased sales to schools between April and September 2023, with school sales comprising an average of 33% of their total farm revenues.
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94% of participating farmers are small to midsize operations, and many represent historically underrepresented groups, with 62% owned by women and 42% by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color farmers.
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100% of participating farmers have adopted, or plan to adopt, climate-smart agricultural practices, reduced pesticide use, and expanded organic farming.
California’s $100 million investment in California Farm to School—the largest in the nation—has generated widespread interest from other states and municipalities. This growing momentum reflects bipartisan recognition of farm-to-school programs as effective solutions to pressing challenges in health, education, and climate resilience.
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