Photo courtesy of ISU Extension and Outreach

This week, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship awarded 30 mini-grants to participating sponsors as part of the Iowa Farm to Summer campaign, “Root for Radishes”. Iowa State University Extension Henry County received one of the $300 grants, which are given for the purpose of purchasing local food.

“Root for Radishes” is a statewide effort to promote summer meal sites by celebrating local radishes this summer. With a focus on this familiar, readily available vegetable, the goal is to increase participation of children at Iowa summer meal sites while also building market demand for local producers.

The Department received 51 applications from summer meal site sponsors, community partners, and early childhood education providers, 30 of which were selected. Recipients are required to source local produce from area producers. In addition, they are encouraged to share promotional materials and learning opportunities with children. The program is part of a five-year campaign, with the vegetables highlighted over the next four years being snap peas, cucumbers, carrots, and lettuce.

To view a complete list of mini-grant awards through the Farm to Summer campaign, click here.