National Investment in Local Procurement Working for Massachusetts Farmers and Food Businesses

This school year, 243 school districts around the state are utilizing over $3 million in USDA funds to buy local foods that are fresh or minimally processed for their school menus. This funding, which encourages districts to source from BIPOC and women-owned farms and businesses, is making waves in the local food economy. While USDA is defining the local radius to within 400 miles, in Massachusetts, we are seeing nearly 80% of purchases are from Massachusetts farmers and food businesses, 21% of those purchases are directly from Massachusetts farmers, and nearly 55% are through Massachusetts food hubs and distributors.

This success speaks to Massachusetts farmers, food hubs and distributors’ efforts to scale and respond to schools’ needs, as they are selling products ranging from grass-fed ground beef, free-range eggs and yogurt, to tomatoes, squash, and other produce. Notably, in winter months, school districts are sourcing fish, meat, and dairy products, as well as hydroponic lettuce, frost-sweetened spinach, apples, potatoes, and other storage crops, including those made into vegetable noodles like sweet potatoes. These products are changing the landscape of school food for the better, as students recognize farm names on the menu and as flavorful aromas entice students to the cafeteria. 

Without immediate action to secure state funds, these wonderful menu changes and investment in our food economy will end this June. House Bill 3993, introduced by Representatives Mindy Domb and Andy Vargas, would fund a 3 year pilot program within the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to provide public K-12 schools and licensed early child care programs additional reimbursement for meals featuring locally and regionally grown foods. These programs would be reimbursed $1 for every $3 spent on qualifying Massachusetts foods, increase access to healthy high quality foods for all Massachusetts kids, and provide direct investment to Massachusetts farmers and fishers for a more resilient food system. 

Let your legislators know how important local foods are to your schools and communities by sending them an email! We’ve drafted the letter, but you can add your own story to make a stronger impact. Contact your legislators today!