OLD SAYBROOK, Conn. (WTNH) — It’s CT Grown for CT Kids week.
This is a time to celebrate local agriculture and highlight the importance of fresh produce in schools.
On Monday, students at Kathleen E. Goodwin Elementary School in Old Saybrook got a chance to eat some fresh foods, pet farm animals and learn about agriculture.
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“As a state we will be able to enrich our educational experience for our students and improve the health of our kids in Connecticut all while enhancing our state’s economy,” said Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz.
Bysiewicz said the agricultural business contributes over $4 billion to the state’s economy every year.
With 5,000 farms across the state, this plan will connect farmers with students, according to officials.
CT Grown for CT Kids received more than $86,637 in micro grant awards to develop farm to school programs including CT Fresh ED Compass.
“We have 40 districts already piloting it now and we will be rolling down statewide next year,” Charlene Russell-Tucker, the education commissioner of Connecticut said.
The CT Fresh Ed Buy Local Program will also be launched soon. As reported by state officials, the program will provide reimbursements to eligible entities for the purchase of local and regional sourced foods used in the eligible child nutrition programs.
Connecticut Grown for Connecticut Kids week coincides with National Farm to School month, which runs from Oct. 6 to Oct. 10.
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