Program Overview

Farm to School Snack is a monthly program that provides locally grown vegetables and fruit from Nova Scotia farms to students in participating schools.  The snack program is run by dedicated volunteers in each school, with on-going program support from Nourish Nova Scotia’s Farm to School Coordinator.  Local produce is purchased and brought to the schools (through a variety of delivery models), after which volunteers prepare and serve the produce to all students and staff.  Accompanying information sheets highlight details on the local farm, the nutritional value of the vegetables and fruit, fun facts for the students and video suggestions for the teaching staff.   

New schools are added to the Farm to School Snack program by self-identification in their interest in the program and their readiness to begin. Each interested school meets with the Farm to School Coordinator to discuss their program and determine the best model for their individual needs and resources.  School “ownership” of the program helps ensure the sustainability of the program.   

The Farm to School Snack program aims to support our local farming community by paying fair market value for snack produce items.  Program budgets can be calculated through discussions with the Farm to School Snack Coordinator (based on student population).  Funding sources can include the use of existing school-based funding, participation in a Nourish Your Roots 2.0 school fundraiser, or other community grants. 

Feedback from participating schools has been very positive, with reports that students are happily trying and enjoying local produce through the universal snack.  Some schools have taken the snack program a step further, linking their monthly snack item with their school salad bar and lunch menu offerings.  With continued volunteer and community support, schools are eager for this program to continue.