USDA is launching an initiative to bring more locally produced food into schools while investing in cafeteria equipment and nutrition research.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced Harvest to Hallways, which includes up to $70 million for school cafeteria infrastructure and equipment.
USDA also plans to provide up to $25 million in additional Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grants for fiscal 2026, helping schools purchase local foods while creating markets for farmers and ranchers. The agency will expand outreach around its Local Option School Procurement Program, which allows qualifying schools to receive reimbursement for locally produced foods.
USDA and HHS will also encourage states to adopt updated nutrition practices, while HHS will provide $30 million for school meal nutrition research.
