The Food & Agriculture Service-Learning Program (FASLP) announced 4 awardees that will continue to further the mission of this innovative competitive grant program. The primary goal of the FASLP program is to increase the knowledge of agricultural science and improve the nutritional health of children. The program's capacity for food, gardening, and nutrition education within host organizations or entities, such as school cafeterias and classrooms, while fostering higher levels of community engagement between farms and school systems by bringing together stakeholders from distinct parts of the food system. The initiative is part of a broader effort to not only increase access to school meals for children, but also to dramatically improve their quality.
The FASLP program supports the USDA's mission by integrating food, agriculture, nutrition, and education to strengthen the connection between youth and healthy food systems. By fostering hands-on learning experiences in schools and communities, the program cultivates lifelong healthy eating habits, enhances food literacy, and builds a pipeline of future leaders in agriculture and nutrition, ultimately contributing to resilient local food systems and improved public health.
By connecting schools with U.S. farmers, ranchers, and producers, FASLP ensures that taxpayer dollars are invested back into American agriculture. It supports domestic food production, creates jobs in rural communities, and builds resilient local supply chains. Additionally, it helps the next generation understand and value American farming, reinforcing national self-reliance and food security.
2025 Awardees:
- Growing Gardens; OR, $240,000
- Mala'ai; HI, $240,000
- Rooted WI, Inc.; WI, $240,000
- West Virginia Food and Farm Coalition; WV, $240,000