Maryland School Districts Offer Fresh Local Food to Children

BALTIMORE (AP) -- Maryland school districts are providing lots of fresh, local produce to children this summer.

The Baltimore Sun reports systems in the state have teamed up with local agencies to offer the food at summer schools, libraries and even some farmers' markets.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says Maryland school districts are leading the way in purchasing local produce for summer nutrition programs compared to other states.

Nationally, 22 percent of districts participating in the summer program buy local foods. In Maryland, that percentage is 59.

The USDA reimburses agencies and school systems for meals that are served during the summer as a way to combat hunger.