The Fresh from the Farm initiative is being continued.
It is a program that brings fresh Ontario grown food to communities while supporting local schools.
Ontario schools participating in the Fresh from the Farm fundraising effort generated an average of $2,040 through sales of almost 770 kg of fresh produce per school this year.
Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs says they are pleased to partner with groups to develop an innovative way to promote Ontario produce and support schools.
OMAFRA, the Dietitians of Canada and the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association are some of the partners.
On average, schools retained $817 in profits for school initiatives, using the funds to support travel and entry fees for sports competitions or school band trips, student retreats, upgrades to sporting facilities, school yard improvement projects, scholarships or bursaries, and charitable purposes.
To date, 1,713 schools have participated in Fresh from the Farm, raising funds by selling over 1.6 million kilograms of Ontario fruits and vegetables.
Schools keep 40% of funds, 50% of sales are returned to Ontario’s farmers, and 10% goes to Fresh from the Farm to ensure the program’s longevity.
