Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grantee Gathering

Our team had the opportunity to meet with all the other 2023 Grantees during the Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grantee Gathering in Atlanta, Georgia, which took place from September 13th to 15th. Being first-year grantees, this gathering proved to be incredibly beneficial as it provided us with valuable insights into the resources available to enhance our farm to school program. Moreover, it allowed us to engage with fellow grantees, gaining a deeper understanding of their programs and the outstanding initiatives taking place within the Farm to School network.

Additionally, we had the privilege of visiting the Common Market and Atlanta Metro Farm, where we were exposed to the remarkable efforts these organizations are making to serve their communities through the provision of nutritious, locally grown food.

Exciting and impactful ideas have emerged from these experiences, and we are eagerly looking forward to implementing our Farm to School program with students this school year!

Metro Atlanta Urban Farm (MAUF) was established to address the increasing demand for affordable food in low-income neighborhoods. Their innovative agricultural model focuses on reducing food insecurity by educating families on planting, cultivating, and cooking fresh produce.

The Common Market is a nonprofit regional food distributor with a mission to bridge urban communities with sustainable family farms, achieved by selling fresh, wholesome food to community institutions, establishing a supportive supply chain for farmers and ranchers, and offering avenues for wholesale food procurement that align with shared values.