Local Food Program
The Local Food Program from the Colorado Department of Education funds schools to purchase and serve Colorado-grown foods, enhancing student nutrition and supporting local agriculture.
Funder: Colorado Department of Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026 (July claim) | October 2026 (August claim) | November 2026 (September claim) | November 2026 (combined August/September claim) | December 2026 (October claim) | January 2027 (November claim) | February 2027 (December claim) | April 2027 (January claim) | April 2027 (February claim) | May 2027 (March claim) | June 2027 (April claim) | July 2027 (May claim) | August 2027 (June claim)
Funding Amounts: Over $15.4 million projected for 2026–27 across 131 districts and 14 charter sites; reimbursement rates vary by meal type and eligibility (e.g., $4.85 for free lunch, $2.54 for free breakfast).
Summary: Supports eligible sponsors in purchasing Colorado-grown, raised, or processed foods for school meals to improve nutrition and strengthen local agriculture.
Key Information: Claims must be submitted within 60 days after the end of each claim month; only actual meals served are reimbursable.
Description
The Local Food Program, administered by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), provides funding to eligible sponsors—including school districts, charter schools, residential childcare institutes, and facility schools—for the purchase of Colorado-grown, raised, or processed food products. The program is designed to enhance the nutritional quality of school meals, foster stronger connections between schools and local producers, and support Colorado's agricultural economy. Funding is provided through monthly reimbursement for meals served that incorporate local foods, with rates determined by meal type and student eligibility.
