WHY

Fresh foods are nutrient rich and they taste good! And we all know that kids like a tasty snack!

It’s a great learning experience. When their food comes from around the corner rather than across the country, an opportunity arises for great discussion about farming, food production and the local economy. Consider it hands-on learning that leaves everyone satisfied. 

Local food provides excellent value. It’s fresher, it lasts longer and it goes through much less handling and processing. That’s a win-win for students and school budgets.

When you buy local, you set an important example to school children: community support is key. And by starting at a young age, buying local just may become a part of their lives as they grow up.

HOW

Now that you see the benefits of schools buying local, here’s how to bring the crops to your cafeteria:

First, make the commitment to purchasing locally grown food. This is a big step, but one that will reap great rewards.

Involve local farmers in the bid process. They will welcome the opportunity to introduce great foods and farm pride to tomorrow’s generation of growers and consumers.

Prepare local produce bids specific to your geographical area and award bids by line items, among several vendors/farmers. Farms may specialize in certain items so, in order to secure the best foods in all categories as well as share your funds among the community, it’s best to award multiple contracts.

Participate in local initiatives like the NCDA Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program and the DOD Program. These helpful programs are available specifically for your assistance, to develop a customized and successful healthy eating program for your school.

Purchase food from a Local Farmer Cooperative. For more information on SENC FOODS Farmer Cooperative contact Renee Eli at elir@uncw.edu 828-506-5600