By: Ag. Reporter Mollie Goode
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture is starting a new program to recognize Kentucky schools using locally grown food products.
The Kentucky Farm to School Stars Recognition Program will recognize three school districts each year that have increased their locally sourced produce and protein. The three districts chosen will have the opportunity to receive $10,000, $8,000, or $6,000 for their efforts.
Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell says, “Increasing purchases of Kentucky foods directly impacts Kentucky farm families. In addition, the local purchases positively impact schools by growing the availability of nutritious and fresh food to our school-aged children. It really is a win for everyone.”
For districts to be eligible to apply they must participate in the National School Lunch Program and be committed to purchasing from Kentucky Farmers.
Winners for the 2024-2025 school year won’t be announced until National Farm to School Month in October, and applications won’t be due until July 31, 2025.
For more information surrounding the program and application process, go to the KDA’s website.