School & District Management Video

How Federal Cuts Are Affecting School Meals and Local Farmers

By Olina Banerji & Jaclyn Borowski — June 26, 2025 1:28
A delivery from Turner’s Dairy is dropped off at Yarnick's Farm in Indiana, Pa., on June 4, 2025.

The $660 million Local Food for Schools grant program was created in 2021 to give schools and child care facilities the opportunity to buy food from small farms and local producers.

For Pittsburgh public schools, the grant meant students enjoyed more fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as 100% beef burgers, in their school meals.

As of March, though, the program was abruptly canceled amid the Trump administration’s cost-cutting efforts.

See Also

Dan Yarnick inspects produce at Yarnick's Farm in Indiana, Pa., on June 4, 2025. The farm is one of a number of local providers who partnered with Pittsburgh Public Schools to provide students with fresh fruits and veggies.
Dan Yarnick inspects produce at Yarnick's Farm in Indiana, Pa., on June 4, 2025. The farm is one of a number of local providers who partnered with Pittsburgh Public Schools to provide students with fresh fruits and vegetables. These types of partnerships are in jeopardy with the cancellation of the Local Food for Schools program.
Nate Smallwood for Education Week

Olina Banerji is a reporter for Education Week who covers school leadership.
Jaclyn Borowski is the director of photography and videography for Education Week.

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