Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan has declared July 2023 as Farm to Summer month to celebrate local food and agriculture products. The initiative aims to promote the use of fresh, in-season produce from local sources at summer feeding sites across the state.
The Summer Food Service Program's Meet Up and Eat Up provides free and nutritious meals during the summer to children up to 18 years old in low-income areas. Governor Whitmer emphasized the importance of providing nutritious meals to Michigan kids and supporting local farm families and communities.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) highlighted the significance of younger generations learning about local food and agriculture. Summer programs focusing on healthy habits and showcasing Michigan-grown fruits and vegetables will ensure a bright future for the state's food and agricultural industry.
Farm to Summer offers an opportunity to increase the use of Michigan products on menus, serve fresh local produce at summer feeding sites, and engage children in learning about Michigan agriculture.
The Summer Food Service Program and Farm to Summer play a vital role in preventing summer learning loss and bridging the summer hunger gap. Children benefit from access to healthy meals and educational activities such as gardening and taste-testing.
Michigan has more than 46,000 farms and more than 805,000 people employed in the food and agriculture sector, the industry contributes significantly to the state's economy.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: Michigan, General