Gov. Kay Ivey has proclaimed October as Farm to School Month in Alabama, recognizing the connection between local farmers, schools and students.

Since October 2020, the Alabama Farm to School Program has received $2.195 million from the state Legislature for its Farm to School incentive program, a news release said. Schools have since spent $5,908,487.44 purchasing from local farmers and served 14,332,643 meals featuring Alabama products.

"Farm to School is about more than putting Alabama-grown food on the lunch tray. It gives students a better understanding of where their food comes from, while creating another market for the Alabama farmers who grow it," said Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries Commissioner Rick Pate in the release. "During Farm to School Month, we are proud to recognize the farmers, educators and school nutrition staff who are helping agriculture become a meaningful part of students’ everyday lives."

Throughout October, schools across Alabama will host special events, classroom activities and hands-on learning experiences connecting students with agriculture. The program also supports school gardens, farm field trips and activities promoting healthy eating and agricultural awareness.

“The positive impact of Alabama’s Farm to School Program can be seen in the numbers. They show how the program reaches beyond the cafeteria by creating opportunities for our farmers and keeping more food dollars here in Alabama,” said Farmers Market Authority Interim Director Beth Spratt. “We want to sincerely thank Governor Ivey and the Alabama legislature for providing funds for us to incentivize Alabama schools making local purchases.”

The Alabama Farm to School Program, under the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, connects local farmers with schools to bring fresh, Alabama-grown products into cafeterias while supporting farmers and strengthening local economies.

Additional information is available at agi.alabama.gov/fts/.