Small Farm to School Act of 2021
12/31/2022, 8:59 AMSummary of Bill HR 5249
Bill 117 HR 5249, also known as the Small Farm to School Act of 2021, aims to support small farms and promote healthy eating habits among school children. The bill proposes to establish a grant program within the Department of Agriculture to assist small farms in selling their products to schools for use in school meal programs.The bill outlines eligibility criteria for small farms to participate in the grant program, including requirements related to farm size, annual revenue, and compliance with food safety regulations. It also specifies that priority should be given to farms that are minority-owned, women-owned, or located in underserved communities.
Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of promoting locally grown and sustainable food options in school meal programs. It encourages schools to incorporate educational activities related to agriculture and nutrition into their curriculum, in order to increase awareness and appreciation for where food comes from. Overall, the Small Farm to School Act of 2021 seeks to strengthen the connection between small farms and schools, while also promoting healthy eating habits and supporting local agriculture.
Congressional Summary of HR 5249
Small Farm to School Act of 2021
This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to award three-year grants to eight states or tribal organizations to provide school food authorities with an increased reimbursement for free and reduced price lunches that include at least one component that is comprised entirely of locally-produced and unprocessed foods procured directly from certain agricultural producers.
USDA must select at least one state or tribal organization located in each of the following regions: (1) the Mid-Atlantic Region, (2) the Midwest Region, (3) the Mountain Plains Region, (4) the Northeast Region, (5) the Southern Region, (6) the Southwest Region, and (7) the Western Region.
USDA must give the highest priority to applications that propose to carry out certain projects, including projects that (1) serve a high proportion of children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds, and (2) increase the availability of locally-produced foods to children. Additionally, priority must be given to states or tribal organizations with a high quantity and variety of growers of local fruits and vegetables on a per capita basis, and with a demonstrated commitment to farm-to-school activities.
Each state or tribal organization that receives a grant must provide, from nonfederal sources, an amount equal to 100% of the awarded grant amount.
