The Farm to School program has expanded to eight more schools in Chatham-Kent.
The nutrition program launched last March, providing local fruits and vegetables to eight schools. After receiving positive feedback, organizers decided to double its reach this year.
The program will now enable 3,600 students to enjoy local fruits and vegetables every day for 16 weeks.
"Consumption of fruits and vegetables here in Chatham-Kent is low and this is one way to encourage our youth towards healthier eating today for a healthier future," says Elaine Lewis, Chatham-Kent student nutrition program coordinator.
This year’s partners are 10 farms, Southwestern Ontario Gleaners and Evans Wholesale.
Grant money pays for the purchase of the fruit and vegetables from farmers at a fair market price. The
schools do not have to pay for the delivery of fruits and vegetables each week.
Menu choices include local products such as: apples, peppers, carrots, mini cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, strawberries, dehydrated squash and dehydrated apple chips.
The next phase started Feb. 9 and will run until June 5.
