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Broome-Tioga BOCES News Article

Broome-Tioga BOCES Awarded $100,000 for Farm-to-School Program

Broome-Tioga BOCES has been awarded $100,000 as part of New York State’s Farm-to-School initiative, announced today by State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball. The funding, part of over $1.5 million awarded to 16 organizations across the state, will help enhance the connection between local farms and school districts, promoting the use of fresh, locally sourced foods in school cafeterias. This initiative supports Governor Hochul’s commitment to strengthening New York’s agricultural economy and improving access to healthy meals for students.

The grant will bolster the existing partnership between Broome-Tioga BOCES, the Rural Health Network of South-Central New York, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County, and 15 participating school districts. The funds will increase the variety and volume of locally grown food served in school meal programs and ensure the program’s long-term sustainability.
 
Broome-Tioga BOCES Superintendent Rebecca Stone emphasized the importance of this partnership, saying, “This funding allows us to expand our Farm-to-School efforts, not only enhancing the meals served to students but also educating them about local agriculture and fostering healthy eating habits.”
 
As part of the kickoff to Farm-to-School Month, Commissioner Ball visited C R Weeks Elementary School in Windsor, NY, where students sampled an Apple Crisp Parfait made with locally sourced oats, yogurt, and apples from Russell Farms. The visit highlighted how Broome-Tioga BOCES is bringing New York-grown products directly into school cafeterias.
 
The Farm-to-School program aims to provide educational opportunities for students while supporting local farmers, such as Mike Russell of Russell Farms, who noted that the initiative has provided consistent revenue during slower seasons, helping his business retain employees year-round.
 
Since its inception in 2015, New York’s Farm-to-School program has awarded $8.7 million to more than 100 projects statewide. These programs not only boost local agricultural economies but also improve the health and well-being of students by introducing fresh, nutritious foods into their daily meals.
 

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