Join NJ Food Democracy Collaborative for a virtual Hour of Action.

On June 30, the New Jersey Legislature will finalize the state's FY27 budget—and we have a critical opportunity to ensure that Local Food for Schools is included.

For more than two years, legislation to establish a permanent Local Food for Schools program has stalled, despite broad support from farmers, schools, students, and communities across New Jersey.

The program would help K–12 schools purchase healthy, fresh foods grown and raised by New Jersey farmers, keeping food dollars in local communities while improving access to nutritious meals for students.

The good news? There is currently a proposal to include $4.5 million for Local Food for Schools in the FY27 state budget. But budget decisions are being made right now, and lawmakers need to hear from constituents before the final vote.

We'll spend one hour together contacting legislators and budget leaders to urge them to support funding for Local Food for Schools.

We'll provide:

• A brief overview of the program and budget opportunity • Talking points and sample messages • Legislator contact information • Time to make calls and send emails together in real time

No advocacy experience is required. Whether you've never contacted a legislator before or you've done this many times, we'll make it easy to participate. Every call and email helps demonstrate the broad support for investing in New Jersey farmers, healthy school meals, and stronger local food systems.

Join us and help make sure Local Food for Schools crosses the finish line. Bring a teacher, friend, or neighbor!

REGISTER HERE.