Successes and Challenges Implementing a "Fresh from the Farm" Fundraising Program in Schools

Area of Science:

• Nutrition and Public Health
• Agricultural Economics
• Educational Policy

Background:

• The Ontario government's School Food and Beverage Policy and Local Food Act aimed to promote healthy eating and local food systems.
• Traditional school fundraising often relies on less healthy food options, presenting a need for viable alternatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the successes and challenges of the "Fresh from the Farm" (FFF) healthy fundraiser program over six years.
• To assess FFF's impact on Ontario schools, farmers, and alignment with provincial policies.

Main Methods:

• Program evaluation of the "Fresh from the Farm" initiative involving data collection from participating schools and partner organizations.
• Analysis of sales data, school participation rates, and reported satisfaction levels over a 6-year period.

Main Results:

• Over 1700 Ontario schools participated, generating more than $2 million in sales for local farmers.
• Participating schools reported high satisfaction (over 90% re-enrollment) due to ease of implementation, profitability, and healthy alternative offerings.
• Average sales per school were $2040, with an average of 770 kg of fresh produce sold per school.

Conclusions:

• The "Fresh from the Farm" program demonstrated success in promoting healthy eating and supporting local agriculture within Ontario schools.
• Key challenges included sourcing and delivery logistics, financial model feasibility due to costs, and competition from other fundraising activities.
• The program offers a valuable, healthy, and profitable fundraising model for schools, though operational efficiencies need consideration.