ALBANY, N.Y. (RFD-TV) — Efforts are gaining momentum to expand the amount of locally grown food served in New York State institutions, including schools, hospitals, and care facilities that provide meals to millions of residents each year.
Heidi Exline with American Farmland Trust (AFT) joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to discuss how the organization is helping strengthen the connection between local farms and institutional food programs through the Farm to School initiative.
In her interview with RFD-TV News, Exline explained that the Farm to School program plays a key role in supporting local farmers while ensuring students have access to fresh, nutritious food. She emphasized that purchasing from nearby farms keeps food dollars within local economies and helps sustain family farms across the state.
AFT supports these efforts by helping schools source local products, offering guidance to farmers looking to work with schools, and advocating for policies that make local food procurement easier.
Exline encouraged farmers interested in participating to reach out to their local Farm to School coordinators or contact American Farmland Trust for resources and assistance in navigating contracts, supply logistics, and compliance requirements. She says the growing program is a win for both students and farmers—creating stronger food systems, healthier meals, and more resilient rural communities.
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