Farm to school pilot project in two school districts in San Mateo County, California

Introduction: Farm to school programs connect schools to local farms, strive to increase consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables; provide agriculture, health and nutrition education; and support regional food economies. The San Mateo County Food System Alliance (SMFSA) is a community-based collaborative that promotes an economically viable, environmentally sound and socially just food system. One goal of the SMFSA is to facilitate a connection between institutions and county growers. The SMFSA obtained a grant to implement a farm to school pilot project in two school districts.

Methods: The SMFSA surveyed schools to assess their interest in purchasing local produce. Using this data, it selected school districts with different demographics and infrastructure capabilities. It then analyzed produce purchased in 2009-2010, met with growers to determine their willingness to sell produce to schools, and facilitated connections between food service directors and growers.

Results: One grower agreed to devote three acres of produce for schools and another agreed to sell produce directly to high schools in spring 2012. A third grower will supply strawberries to a “Harvest of the Month” program.

Discussion: These accomplishments suggest that farm to school programs can be replicated in other school districts in the county. However, strong commitment from both growers and food service directors is essential to the success of such programs.