The GFA FTS Working Group serves as a facilitator and liaison in support of the Greenwich Public Schools farm to school programs. Our efforts culminated in connecting GPS Food Service with Biden's USDA Local Food For Schools Program (LFSIP). The funding totaling $29,000 for the 2024 - 2025 school year is an unprecedented investment in students health and the CT food economy. LFSIP enabled GPS to successfully procure from the Northwest Connecticut Regional Food Hub.
As defined by the National Farm To School Network: Farm to school enriches the connection communities have with nutritious, culturally appropriate food and local food producers by changing food purchasing and education practices at schools and early care and education sites. Students gain access to local foods as well as education opportunities such as school gardens, cooking lessons and farm field trips. Farm to school empowers children and their families to make informed food choices while strengthening the local economy and contributing to vibrant communities.
Farm to school implementation differs by location but always includes one or more of the following:
- Procurement: Local foods are purchased, promoted and served in the cafeteria or as a snack or taste-test; - School gardens: Students engage in hands-on learning through gardening; and - Education: Students participate in education activities related to agriculture, food, health or nutrition.
Priorities
who we are
Martha Ramkellawan, Food Service Director at GPS
Ali Ghiorse, The Foodshed Network
Sharon Psyhojas, Waste Free Greenwich + Food Rescue US-Fairfield County
