Farm to Summer 
 
Summer in Georgia is a time of agricultural abundance and bountiful harvests: plump stone fruits hang heavy on trees, juicy melons and tomatoes explode from their vines, beans begin to dry in their pods, and livestock feed on the most nutritious spring grasses to produce delicious meat and dairy products. Luckily for local farmers, kids, and their communities, schools and nonprofit Sponsors offering USDA's Summer Meals Programs are capitalizing on the many opportunities that summer brings to serve fresh, local foods and hands-on agriculture activities that help children develop healthy habits. 
 
What are the benefits of Farm to Summer? 
 
 Increased participation in summer meals programs  Improved quality and appeal of summer meals  Engaged kids and families through fun, hands-on activities  Increased access to fresh, nutritious meals  Increased access to experiential learning activities  Increased nourishment and activity while school is out  Increased support of local farmers and communities 
 
How can organizations and families engage with Farm to Summer? 
 
Where can local foods be purchased in Georgia? 
 
 Grow your own edible garden in containers, raised beds or the ground 
 Take a trip to a farm to meet your local farmer 
 Source local foods from your community 
 Conduct a taste test to try new foods 
 Read a book that connects children to their food origins 
 Engage with children through developmentally appropriate cooking activities 
 
 Community Supported Agriculture (CSA): Membership or subscription for local, in-season produce from a local farmer or grower. 
 Farmer's Market 
 Farm Stand: Typically located near a farm, roadside or u-pick farm. Farm stands are operated by a single farmer or farm. Offers products that have been harvested that day. 
 Food Hub: Business or organization that manages the distribution and marketing for local foods 
 Local Grocery Store 
 Direct from Farmers 
 
How can local foods be incorporated into summer meals? 
 
1. Identify which local foods are currently being served. 2. Contact a local farmer to find out which fruits and vegetables are in-season. 3. Substitute food items you are eating with locally grown and harvested foods. 4. Start a "Harvest of the Month" program in your community. 5. Develop new recipes using local Georgia Grown foods. 
 
The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.