DATCP: Apply now to be an AmeriCorps Farm to School host site in 2015-16

Media Contact: Ann Marie Ames 608-224-5041 annmarie.ames@wi.gov
Jim Dick, Communications Director 608-224-5020 jim.dick@wi.gov

MADISON – The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is now accepting requests for partnership (RFP) for new AmeriCorps Farm to School partner sites across Wisconsin for the 2015-2016 grant year.

Schools and communities interested in becoming host sites must file their intent to apply by April 3. Complete applications are due to DATCP by May 8.

“The AmeriCorps – DATCP Farm to School program serves to strengthen communities by developing future community leaders and connecting schools with local farmers and food businesses,” said Dominique Bradley, DATCP’s AmeriCorps Farm to School program manager. “Participating partner host sites gain additional resources to start or strengthen their Farm to School programs through the work of AmeriCorps Members.”

Program staff anticipate funding for at least two new host sites. Approved host sites will receive resources to support at least one half-time community outreach member and one half-time nutrition educator.

“The service of AmeriCorps members helps to connect farmers with schools and increase food service directors’ abilities to use healthy local foods. They also serve to promote healthy eating through nutrition education in the classroom and build sustainable Farm to School coalitions in communities.”

Applications will be considered based on the applicant’s ability to:

● Show community need for AmeriCorps Farm to School activities.
● Provide a reasonable plan to implement Farm to School activities in its community as outlined in the application.
● Provide high-quality support for AmeriCorps Members.
● Participate in AmeriCorps Farm to School reporting requirements.
● Provide cash and in-kind matches.

Funding for AmeriCorps Farm to School is provided by Serve Wisconsin through the Corporation for National and Community Service. Through its partnership with DATCP, the AmeriCorps Farm to School program currently works with 17 host sites throughout the state and has served more than 15,000 Wisconsin students. The AmeriCorps Farm to School program is one component of DATCP’s statewide farm to school program. Currently, more than 55 percent of the school districts in Wisconsin are engaged in farm to school activities.

Learn more about the AmeriCorps Farm to School program or download an RFP that includes an Intent to Apply form due April 3rd by going to http://tinyurl.com/o496a4d.Or contact Dominique Bradley at Dominique.Bradley@Wisconsin.gov or 608-224-5017.

RFP’s are due to DATCP by 4:30 p.m. Friday, May 8. Awards are expected to be announced in mid-June, and programming is expected to start in August, contingent on funding.