Congratulations to CEC Fort Collins (Middle and High School) and CEC Windsor for their $32,000 USDA Farm to School Grant. Over the next two years, this grant will fund the Growing Gardens: Growing Lives program, focusing on classrooms, kitchens, and communities. This program offers students hands-on opportunities in gardening, cooking, healthy eating, and understanding local food systems.
CEC hosts school gardens at Fort Collins Middle School, Fort Collins High School, and Windsor 6-12, where students help design, plant, and maintain the gardens. CEC partners with five local farmers and ranchers to source organic produce and grass-fed beef for school lunches. The Patrick Leahy Edible Gardens project will enhance the program by improving garden and kitchen infrastructure, thereby increasing the program’s sustainability.
The mission is to empower students to positively impact their communities through local food relationships while cultivating life skills and a deeper understanding of personal health and wellbeing.
