News

The application period for the Pennsylvania Farm-to-School Grant Program is now open.

Through the program, any school, program, or center with a pre-kindergarten through 8th-grade classroom can apply for up to $15,000 in funding for healthy foods. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, May 19.

About the Farm-to-School Grant Program

The Pennsylvania Farm to School Grant Program aims to bridge the gap between children and the food system by connecting them to the fresh, healthy food available from Pennsylvania agricultural producers in their community and the surrounding areas.

Sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (DOA), it can change food purchasing and education practices at schools and early childhood education sites, and help children become more aware and engaged with their local food system.

Farm-to-School Grant Program Details

Eligibility

All public school districts, charter schools, or private schools with pre-kindergarten classes, kindergarten classes, or elementary school classes through the eighth grade, and all center-based pre-schools located and operating within Pennsylvania may apply.

However, school districts wishing to submit multiple applications must have individual schools apply. This means that the applicant information must reflect the individual building, not the district or an individual person.

Grant Limitations

• $500,000 is available for the Pennsylvania Farm-to-School Grant Program. Grants will be awarded on a funds-available basis.
• Projects must be completed no later than June 30, 2025.
• Grants will be funded as reimbursement grants.
• A single grant shall be limited to 75% of the cost of the project.
• Grant recipients must fund at least 25% of the project with a minimum 25% match cash or in-kind.
• Each school may receive no more than $15,000 annually.
• Recipients may use the value of in-kind support to match the amount granted.

Grant Uses

Grants can be used for:

• training for teachers and staff
• procuring local foods for school cafeterias
• food supplies
• educational opportunities:
  • classroom curricula
  • experiential learning
  • family and community involvement
  • field trips to local farms or other agricultural operations
  • school gardens for the purpose of education or to supply the cafeteria

Apply for a Farm-to-School Program Grant

Interested applicants must submit an application through the Single Application for Assistance online application between system before 5 p.m. on May 19. The DOA will not consider or review applications received after that time.

Applications Requirements

Interested applicants must:

• read the Application Instructions thoroughly, and follow them meticulously
• complete the Application Template prior to accessing the Single Application for Assistance
• complete the budget on the Budget Template
• upload both the completed Application Template and Budget Template as addenda in the Single Application for Assistance

Learn More

To learn more, visit the Farm-to-School Program Grant webpage, the Pennsylvania Bulletin website, or contact Patrick Andrews at RA-AGFARMTOSCHOOL@pa.gov or 717-772-1429.