The family farm and the agriculture and food industries are vital to New York State's economy and the quality of rural life. School food service in big cities and small towns are promoting and using New York products in our school meals programs. A great way for you to get started is by participating in New York Harvest for New York Kids Week, September 30 through October 8, 2007. Begin planning for this event today. That way you will have a whole summer to plan!

New York State School Nutrition Association and NY Farms! recognize creative New York Harvest for New York Kids projects through the Partnership Awards. These awards will be given to school lunch programs who participate in either of three categories, Merchandising/Promoting or Working with Local Farms or Integrating Farm to School Into Your School Wellness Plan

You must submit your entry from by November 30, 2007, to:

New York State School Nutrtion Association (NYSSNA)
125 Wolf Road
Albany, New York 12205

Submission should be no more than ten pages, including pictures and news articles.

They will be judged by an impartial panel, with awards presented at the January, 2008 NYSSNA Legislative Conference in Albany. Any questions, please contact Betsey Bacelli at (607) 687-6284 or email bbacelli@oagw.stier.org

Make the commitment to work from Farm-to-Table and be a leader in your community. Form a partnership with teachers, local farmers, Cooperative Extension, agriculture and food organizations. NY Harvest for NY Kids offers many opportunities for children to have fun while learning about local farms and improving their food choices. Start planning today!

Award Criteria

Impact/Measurability 45 Points - How did this impact the school meals program and the children that are fed? What effect did contacts with farms have on the school community? What other ways did this promotion effect the community and local farms? Demonstrate how you measured evidence of the impact on children, their families, the meal program, farms and the community.

Transferability 25 Points - Your submission should be detailed on "How to" make the NY Harvest for NY Kids celebration work. It is the most heavily weighted criteria, as it is hoped that other schools will learn from and be inspired by your example.

Innovation 20 Points - Show creative ideas, good use of product, new and improved methods of serving New York food products, and clever uses of material and supplies.

Sustainability 10 Points - The activities should be something that can be repeated and expanded in future years during New York Harvest for New York Kids Week.