Buy Fresh Local collaborates with local organizations and state agencies to host school tour promoting local food in school cafeterias
This Thursday October 10th, Buy Fresh Buy Local Cape Cod is proud to collaborate with Sandwich Public Schools, the Abbey Group, Ocean Spray, and various State agencies of Massachusetts, to host a tour at Forestdale School in highlighting efforts to connect student cafeteria programs with local Cape Cod and Massachusetts farms.
The Tour highlights Sandwich Public School’s partnership with The Abbey Group and efforts to bring local food, nutrition, and education into school cafeterias.
Staff from the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture (MDAR) including Assistant Commissioner Ashley Sears Randle, Massachusetts Farm to School, and Massachusetts Department of Education, will take part in Cranberry Education Day with students, and taste the cafeteria options as the agencies join students for a lunch sourced from local Cape Cod and Massachusetts farms.
The revitalized cafeteria program connects Sandwich schools with local farms and provides hands-on opportunities for students to learn where their food comes from. The farm to school and “Buy Local” movements aim to encourage healthier eating habits among families and support local farmers. Children, communities, farmers and schools all win under these initiatives.
Massachusetts has made great strides in establishing itself as a national leader in the “Buy Local” movement and in the expansion of agriculture, aquaculture and value-added agriculture products. With over 7,200 farms in Massachusetts and producing $475 million in agricultural products every year, it’s clear that farmers are playing a vital role in keeping the economy strong and growing. The “Buy Local” movement has helped to propel Massachusetts to 5th in the nation for direct market sales. Barnstable County produces $23 million in agricultural products and is the state’s number one producer of aquaculture products with a value of over $16 million.
Assistant Commissioner Randle and staff will have the opportunity to learn more about the farm to school efforts and discuss additional ways that government at all levels can support the Massachusetts food economy.
Media Inquiries: Rebecca Yavner Westgate
Buy Fresh Buy Local Cape Cod / Cape Cod Cooperative Extension
P: 508-375-6882
E: ryavner@capecod.gov
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