April 21, 2026 3:30 p.m.

Umpqua Valley Farm to School has been awarded a 2026 USDA Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grant.

A release from the nonprofit said it is a federal investment that will expand access to locally grown, caught and raised foods in school meals, while strengthening agricultural education across Douglas County.

The award, totaling $234,206, is part of USDAs nationwide effort to connect schools with local producers and improve student access to fresh, nutritious foods.

Through this funding, UVF2S will partner with Yoncalla School District, South Umpqua School District and Roseburg Public Schools to increase procurement of local foods and deliver hands-on plant-based education that connects students to the region’s farms, fisheries and food systems.

UVF2S Executive Director Erin Maidlow said, “This investment allows us to deepen relationships between schools and local producers while giving students meaningful opportunities to understand where their food comes from”. Maidlow said, “It’s about nourishing both our community and our local economy”.

Umpqua Valley Farm to School is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the local food system through education, farmer support, and increased access to fresh, locally produced foods. Based in Roseburg, UVF2S works with schools, producers, and community partners to build equitable and sustainable food systems across Southwestern Oregon.