Students across several area school districts will see more locally grown foods on their plates this year thanks to a new state program called Certified SC Cafeteria.
Area districts participating include Fort Mill, York, Clover, and Lancaster, which are joining schools across South Carolina in an effort to increase the amount of in-state food served in school cafeterias.
Through the program, districts are reimbursed for buying South Carolina-grown vegetables, fruits, grains and honey, with additional incentives available for schools that source the highest percentage of local food.
State officials say the program is designed to encourage schools to serve more locally grown foods — supporting South Carolina farmers, creating opportunities for students to learn about nutrition and agriculture, and increasing access to fresh, healthy meals.
So far, 67 districts and schools have signed on statewide, representing 874 school cafeterias serving 538,066 students in kindergarten through 12th grade.
The initiative was created with $1 million in annual funding from the South Carolina General Assembly and is operated by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, with additional support from the South Carolina Department of Education.
State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver said the partnership is an investment in students and communities.
“Healthy, locally grown food is more than a meal — it’s an investment in the future of every child,” Weaver said. “Through this partnership with the Department of Agriculture, we’re proud to nourish young minds, support our farmers, and build a stronger South Carolina together.”
The program also includes a new online tool, the SC Local Food Connector, which farmers can use to share product availability and contact information with buyers.
For more information, visit certifiedsccafeteria.com.
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