The PA Farm to School Network is hosting a Virtual Open House on September 24th from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM. This event is open to anyone passionate about local food and student engagement, whether you have been doing this work for years or are just getting started. Strong local food systems build healthier communities. When schools and local farmers connect, students get fresh food, and local economies thrive. 

Navigating local food procurement can feel challenging, but this event brings together experts from every step of the supply chain to share their secrets to success. Attendees will hear from policy professionals who can help navigate complex federal and state grant programs. Local farmers will share how they made it their business to sell to surrounding counties, while school food service professionals will offer insights into managing local menus. You will also discover how a local early childhood care center successfully buys locally as much as possible, giving you practical ideas to implement in your own community.

When these farm-to-school connections are strong, the impact reaches far beyond the cafeteria. Students gain deeply meaningful experiences with local food and agriculture, while communities build much more resilient food systems. No matter your current experience level, you will leave this open house with fresh ideas, great resources, and new professional connections to help bring more locally grown food to your area. Register here!