Matsui, Food Literacy Center Announce $1.05 million of federal funding for Student Farm and Garden
Food Literacy Center CPF Press Conference Post Event Release
Matsui, Food Literacy Center Announce $1.05 million of federal funding for Student Farm and Garden
SACRAMENTO, CA – A new student garden and enhanced science and nutrition programs are coming to the Food Literacy Center thanks to federal funding secured by Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07). She announced the funding this morning alongside local leaders.
An infusion of $1,050,000 in federal dollars will help fund the improvements. The student farm and garden will convert a previously vacant lot into a multi-use, outdoor classroom where students will be able to engage directly in growing their own food. The funding will also support science and nutrition education programs the Food Literacy Center provides to Leataata Floyd Elementary students during their school day. Congresswoman Matsui championed the funding as part of the FY 23 government funding omnibus package that was signed by President Biden in late December.
“The Food Literacy Center plays a critical role in educating our young people –giving them the opportunity to understand the wider impact of their food choices,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Through cooking classes, nutrition courses, and teaching the science that puts it all together, Amber and her team are providing the crucial building blocks for a healthy, long life. I am proud to have championed this $1.05 million of federal funding to help them build upon their great work with the student garden.”
“We’re honored to receive this meaningful grant from Congresswoman Matsui,” said Amber Stott, Founder & CEO, Food Literacy Center. “It helps us reach students who are at highest risk for diet-related disease by inspiring them to eat their veggies in a creative way: through the science and nutrition classroom! The Congresswoman understands how interconnected education and healthy habits are, especially when learned at a young age. We’re thrilled to be able to reach more children because of her support!”
“Thank you to Congresswoman Doris Matsui for recognizing the work we are trying to achieve here to educate our community and students on the importance of healthy eating, and choosing to invest in this community partnership through the Food Literacy Center,” said Jorge A. Aguilar, Superintendent, Sacramento City Unified School District. “Floyd Farms is an example of how collaboration, imagination, and investment can transform our local schools into vibrant and exciting places in our community.”
The Food Literacy Center, located adjacent to Leataata Floyd Elementary School, provides education programs to low-income elementary schools throughout the Sacramento area. In their classroom and cooking school, students learn fruit and vegetable appreciation, how to read nutrition labels, cooking skills and the environmental impacts of their food choices. Learn more about the student farm and garden project HERE.
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