Governor Maura Healey’s office announced that more than two dozen school districts and 11 early education programs in Massachusetts will receive $850,000 in state grant money to purchase locally grown, nutritious food for students. The grants are part of the Farming Reinforces Education and Student Health (FRESH) program, created in response to the Trump administration’s cancellation of a federal grant program that would have provided $3.4 million in food assistance to the state.
Governor Healey criticized the decision to cut off the federal funding, emphasizing the importance of healthy food access for student success and supporting local businesses and farmers. The state grants can be used for various purposes, including school gardens, cooking classes, farm field trips, professional development for nutrition professionals and educators, kitchen equipment, and preparing local food for school meals.
Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler highlighted the significance of connecting students to their local food system and providing STEM educational opportunities focused on food literacy, nutrition, plant science, and agriculture. Advocacy group Massachusetts Farm to School expressed gratitude for the funding, noting the diversity of programs and communities receiving support to further food education opportunities.
The grant program aims to enhance students’ understanding of food production and preparation, support local farmers and businesses, and promote healthy eating habits among children and families across Massachusetts.
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