Farm Fresh Sharing spotlights Contracting Entities (CEs) from Texas and across the country who take part in farm-to-school activities. They answer questions about Farm Fresh programming and share success stories. If you are interested in being featured, please fill out this survey.
This month we are highlighting Culberson County-Allamoore ISD (CCAISD). Located in Van Horn (West) Texas, CCAISD is a small district that can provide free meals for all students because of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP).
Q: How long have you been participating in Farm Fresh Programming?
A: I started participating in 2019.
Q: What has been your biggest challenge in connecting with local producers?
A: Distance and freight cost. We are located in a rural area surrounded by mountains.
Q: Do you have a specific resource to find producers in your area?
A: Yes, I use lists provided at MegaCon, Region 18, and Labatt.
Q: Do you use TDA’s mapping tool on SquareMeals?
A: Yes, I do.
Q: What is your students’ favorite local product that is part of a menu item?
A: Milk or chocolate milk is definitely their favorite.
Q: Do you have a garden?
A: No, we do not.
Q: How do you support your Farm Fresh programming (funding, maintenance, harvesting, volunteers to help)?
A: Funding: I use DoD, Labatt, and local as much as possible for there are no delivery fees.
Maintenance: Cafeteria staff prepare for the tasting tables or to serve on the serving line. They also do the clean-up.
Harvesting: I try to use local pecans and peppers, which are donated. We also have illustrations of local cotton, alfalfa, hay, and barley to encourage farming. Students in pre-k – 2nd grade have an annual trip to the pumpkin patch 160 miles away (320 miles round trip) (General Fund Expense).
Volunteers: Always reach out to those folks who are voted into their position. I have found they want to assist, appoint, or will direct you to someone. Also reach for those who serve in your community.