The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry is now accepting applications to participate in the Local Foods for Schools program for Fiscal Year 2026.
The program will reimburse schools for approved purchases of minimally processed foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, dairy and nuts. The program is designed to help accredited Oklahoma schools connect with local farmers and ranchers that fit their needs.
“This program is opening up a significant opportunity for schools to give students better access to nutritious and local food,” said Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur. “This program also expands potential markets for Oklahoma producers, while showing Oklahoma’s youth there are Agriculture possibilities right here at home.”
The Oklahoma Legislature has allocated more than $3 million to ODAFF for this program and schools can apply for the funding through ODAFF’s online application portal, here. Applications will be accepted on a first-come-first-serve basis until all funds have been distributed.
Producers interested in serving schools can also apply with ODAFF. Schools may only be reimbursed for purchases from ODAFF-approved vendors that are part of the Local Food Procurement Assistance Program. Vendors can sign up here.
For more information about the program, contact Brady Womack at Brady.Womack@ag.ok.gov