Michigan Farm to Youth Network Launched Statewide

By Andi Anderson

The Michigan Farm to School and Early Care Network officially launched on June 25, 2026, bringing together stakeholders from across the state. More than 85 participants attended the virtual launch, including farmers, educators, parents, and organizations committed to improving youth nutrition and local food access.

The network aims to expand access to fresh, locally grown food while promoting nutrition education. It also seeks to support family farms and strengthen communities by building meaningful connections between agriculture and youth programs.

Maria Distler, Program Manager of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, explained the purpose of the initiative. She said, “We really hope that this network becomes a place where people doing Farm to Youth across Michigan can connect, learn from one another, share resources, and build relationships.” She further added, “We want the direction of this network to really be shaped by the people who participate in it.”

The network is led by the Michigan State University Center for Regional Food Systems, the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities, and the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. These organizations guide key working groups, including Strategy, Education and Communications, Local Food Sourcing, and Early Care and Education.

Julie Lehman, Farm to Youth Network Coordinator at CRFS, highlighted the foundation of the initiative, stating, “The depth and longevity of Michigan's Farm to School and Farm to ECE work in the state is what laid the foundation for a strong network launch.”

The network plans to stay connected through regular newsletters and quarterly meetings. These gatherings will provide a platform for sharing experiences and success stories. During the launch, Jen Lewis of East Jordan Public Schools and Mary Turner of Mimi’s House Family Child Care shared their efforts in promoting farm-to-youth programs.

Mary Turner encouraged participation, saying, “For a word of encouragement, I would say start wherever you can – whether that’s a window box for herbs, a container box to grow some potatoes. You don’t have to be big, just put your heart into it,” She added, “So, just start where you are, but really dig in and make that commitment for farm to early care.”

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