USDA Unveils Record $18 Million in Farm to School Grants to Boost Child Nutrition and Local Agriculture

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the opening of applications for the fiscal year 2026 Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grants, signaling a significant investment of up to $18 million aimed at strengthening the connection between American farmers and children’s nutrition programs. This initiative seeks to enhance local food procurement, agricultural education, and the development of school gardens, while also supporting the vitality of American agriculture.

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This year, the USDA has undertaken a comprehensive reimagining of the Farm to School Grant program. Key improvements include a streamlined application process designed to reduce administrative burdens and foster innovation. A particular emphasis has been placed on strengthening partnerships, which is intended to provide small family farms with enhanced opportunities for success within the program. The grants support a range of activities, from integrating unprocessed, locally sourced foods into school meals and child care settings, to providing producers with crucial training on procurement standards and food safety. Furthermore, the program aims to foster agricultural education within career and technical education programs, thereby contributing to the continuity of the nation’s agricultural heritage. A core objective remains the encouragement of increased consumption of fresh, whole fruits and vegetables among students.

The Farm to School Grant program, which began in 2013, has to date awarded $100 million to over 1,200 projects nationwide. The current funding round represents the largest single-year allocation in the program’s history. Eligibility for these grants extends to a broad array of entities, including state and local agencies, Tribal governments, operators of child nutrition programs, small to medium-sized agricultural producers, groups of producers, and nonprofit organizations. Prospective applicants can find detailed information regarding eligibility criteria and application procedures within the official request for applications. The deadline for submitting applications is December 5, 2025.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

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