FORT MILL, S.C. — Students in the Fort Mill School District will see more South Carolina-grown foods in school meals this year as the district joins a new statewide initiative aimed at boosting local purchasing and expanding access to fresh ingredients.
The program, called Certified SC Cafeteria, reimburses participating districts for buying South Carolina-grown vegetables, fruits, grains and honey, according to a district press release. Schools that source the highest percentage of local food can qualify for additional incentives.
State leaders say the program is designed to benefit students and farmers alike — increasing fresh, healthy options in cafeterias while supporting South Carolina agriculture and creating opportunities for students to learn about nutrition and where food comes from.
Fort Mill is among 67 school districts and schools that have signed on so far, representing 874 cafeterias serving 538,066 K-12 students statewide.
The initiative was created with $1 million in annual funding from the South Carolina General Assembly and is operated by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, with additional support from the South Carolina Department of Education.
State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver welcomed the partnership, emphasizing the program’s broader impact.
“Healthy, locally grown food is more than a meal — it’s an investment in the future of every child,” Weaver said in the release. “Through this partnership with the Department of Agriculture, we’re proud to nourish young minds, support our farmers, and build a stronger South Carolina together.”
The program also includes a new online tool, the SC Local Food Connector, which allows farmers to share product availability and contact information with potential buyers.
More information is available at certifiedsccafeteria.com.
