This document summarizes research on the impacts of farm to school programs. It finds that these programs result in modest increases in farmer income through greater sales of local foods to schools. They also increase children's knowledge and consumption of local foods, and some of these impacts extend to families changing eating habits. Community awareness and support for local farming increases as well. Factors that contribute to the success of these programs include leadership, partnerships, community involvement, and leveraging local policies. Future research needs include studying the impacts on food service staff, teacher roles, sustained participation and dietary changes, farmer impacts beyond finances, and long-term health outcomes.

1. Farm to School Impacts Gail Feenstra UC Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education Program