The Virginia Farm to School Program is transforming school cafeterias by connecting students, schools, and local farmers. This initiative provides fresh, locally grown food to students across all educational levels while supporting local agriculture. By integrating Virginia Grown products into school meals, students not only enjoy nutritious food, but they also learn about food seasonality, the environmental benefits of supporting local farmers, and the importance of reducing transportation and protecting farmland.

Pioneering Local Food Initiatives in Virginia

Virginia led the charge in establishing the Farm to School Taskforce in 2007. The state took another significant step in 2009 by celebrating its first Virginia Farm to School Week. These early initiatives have paved the way for increased collaboration between schools and local farmers, encouraging a culture of healthy eating and sustainable agriculture.

Connecting Farmers and Schools: A Seamless Partnership

The Virginia Farm to School Program fosters relationships between local farmers, food distributors, and educational institutions. The Office of Food Distribution plays a central role in connecting these groups, making it easy for farmers to sell their produce, meats, and products to schools, and for schools to purchase fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

How Can You Get Involved?

• Farmers and Producers: Interested in selling your products to schools?
• Schools and Distributors: Looking to purchase local produce for your cafeterias?

For more information or to get connected with schools, farms, or distribution partners, reach out to Seth Benton, Program Manager, Office of Food Distribution.

The Crunch Heard 'Round the Commonwealth: A Statewide Celebration

Every October, Virginia celebrates National Farm to School Month with the "Crunch Heard 'Round the Commonwealth." This fun and engaging event raises awareness about the Virginia Farm to School Program and encourages students, schools, and communities to participate. The event highlights the importance of:

• Eating Healthy
• Supporting Local Farmers
• Learning About Apples
• Celebrating Local Foods

Virginia’s apple orchards are a key part of the state’s agricultural heritage, and during the Crunch event, students get the chance to enjoy and learn about the diverse varieties of apples grown in Virginia. The event promotes not only healthy eating but also the value of supporting local apple growers and enjoying the season’s freshest produce.

Join Us for the 9th Annual Crunch Event!

In partnership with the Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs (VDOE-SCNP), the ninth annual Crunch Heard ’Round the Commonwealth will take place during Virginia Farm to School Week on Thursday, October 9, 2025. Across the Commonwealth, Virginians will make some noise for farm to school programs by taking a bite out of a fresh, Virginia grown apple on the same day.

All Virginians are encouraged to participate. The “Crunch” may be celebrated at any location (e.g. classroom, cafeteria, early care education site, adult day care program, farm, office, outdoors, at home in a virtual learning setting, etc.).

Register and download the 2025 Crunch Toolkit

For more information, please email Sara Hazan, VDOE-SCNP Farm to School Specialist, at Sara.Hazan@doe.virginia.gov.

Share Your Crunch Celebration!

Are you part of a school division that participates in the Crunch Heard ‘Round the Commonwealth? Share your celebration with the world by using these hashtags on social media:

• #VACrunch
• #VAFarmToSchool

Tools & Resources

• Farm To School Banner: Logo marketing material.
• Fruit and Vegetable Product Availability Chart: Stay updated on what's in season.
• Local School Nutrition Program Contacts: Connect with your local school nutrition team.
• National Farm to School Network: A valuable resource for nationwide farm to school initiatives.
• Resources for Teachers and Students: Agriculture educational materials.
• USDA: The Patrick Leahy Farm to School Program: Federal support for farm to school efforts.
• Virginia Grown Logos: (download) Showcase the local products in your school cafeterias.

Contact

Seth Benton
Program Manager, Food Distribution
804.786.0532
seth.benton@vdacs.virginia.gov