Georgia Profile

Georgia is the 6th largest producer of vegetables in the U.S., yet our children rank as the 3rd most obese and overweight. The obesity epidemic translates into more sick days at school, and soaring health care costs. Fortunately, Farm to School programs present a thoughtful, comprehensive solution that addresses good health and local economies.

The Georgia Farm to School Program was established in 2007 by Georgia Organics, a member supported non-profit organization working to integrate healthy, sustainable and locally grown food into the lives of all Georgians. Georgia Organics promotes comprehensive Farm to School programming that incorporates food, farm and nutrition education into the 4 C's: Classroom, Community & Farms, Culinary experiences & Cafeteria.

Farm to School activities include:

-Farm to School e-Bite newsletter

-Comprehensive Farm to School programs which include cross-curricular lessons, student gardening, hands-on cooking demonstrations, farm tours and local food procurement into school meals.

-Key partnerships with Atlanta Public Schools Wellness Council & City of Decatur Schools to help integrate district-wide Farm to School initiatives.

-Consultation with schools on edible gardens and Farm to School activities.

-Advocacy for policy on the local, state and national level.

-Establishment of the Georgia Farm to School Alliance to collaborate and partner with key education and policy stakeholders.