South Carolina Farm to School originated in 2011 as a two-year project funded from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In 2015, the umbrella organization South Carolina Farm to Institution was founded to encompass a wide variety of institutional sites beyond preschools and schools. South Carolina Farm to Institution was a collaborative partnership between the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA), South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE), South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS), and Clemson University. Farm to Institution sought to increase the number of farmers providing locally grown products into institutions, such as schools, childcare centers, food banks, hospitals, military installations, and other businesses.
In 2019, the program returned its focus solely to schools as a partnership between SCDA, SCDE, and Clemson University with the following core goals:
- Cultivating relationships among SC schools, farmers, and communities
- Increasing the availability of healthy, local food for schools
- Promoting agriculture and nutrition education
- Providing experiential learning opportunities for students
SC Farm to School is dedicated to promoting healthy eating habits by bringing fresh, locally sourced produce to schools across South Carolina. By enhancing cafeteria meals with nutritious, seasonal foods, the program empowers students to make healthier choices and supports their overall well-being.
The impact of SC Farm to School extends beyond nutrition. For every $1 spent on local food, up to $2.16 is generated in economic activity, boosting the local economy.*
The program also strengthens community connections, supports environmental stewardship, and creates lasting relationships between schools, farmers, and families.
Certified SC Cafeteria
Certified SC Cafeteria is a state-funded program coordinated by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture to bring more South Carolina grown food into public school cafeterias across our state. With an annual investment of $1 million, the program supports schools in purchasing fresh, local produce while strengthening South Carolina farms and communities. Districts will be reimbursed directly for buying South Carolina grown fruits and vegetables.
Together, we can keep more dollars in South Carolina and celebrate the vital role our farmers and school nutrition professionals play in building stronger communities.
