**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**DuPage County Farm Bureau Unveils Innovative Agricultural Education Initiative: Grow Your Own Food – A Container to Food Project**
*Collaboration with Leading Partners to Impact Thousands of 4th-Grade Students*
DuPage County, IL - The DuPage County Farm Bureau is proud to announce the launch of the Grow Your Own Food – A Container to Food Project, an ambitious agricultural education endeavor in partnership with esteemed collaborators including the College of DuPage, Ball Horticulture, Midwest Groundcover, Country Financial, Compeer Financial, Light of the Soil, LLC, and The DuPage County Fair Association.
This groundbreaking initiative is poised to make a significant impact on approximately four thousand 4th-grade students throughout DuPage County this spring. The program encompasses a multifaceted approach, featuring a 15-minute educational video covering fundamental topics such as food production, transplanting, and plant care. Complementing the video presentation is a concise lesson plan and an engaging hands-on transplanting activity, ensuring an immersive learning experience for all participants.
One of the most noteworthy aspects of the program is its accessibility, made possible through the generous support of our partners. The entire initiative is offered free of charge to schools within the county, underscoring our shared commitment to fostering agricultural literacy and awareness within our community.
From May 6th to 10th, 2024, the Farm Bureau and its partners will distribute project supplies to participating schools, kickstarting the educational journey. Through the accompanying educational video, teachers and students will be guided through the lesson and transplanting activity, culminating in each student receiving their very own starter tomato plant to nurture throughout the summer. To further enhance their experience, students will receive a growth chart, comprehensive plant care instructions, and a simple recipe to savor with their cherry tomatoes. We encourage educators and families to share their experiences and successes on the DuPage County Farm Bureau's social media platforms.
As a fitting conclusion to this enriching program, each student will be granted a complimentary fair pass to proudly showcase their cherished cherry tomato plant at the 2024 DuPage County Fair. A special judging event will be held, complete with ribbons and exciting prizes, further celebrating the students' dedication and newfound agricultural knowledge.
For more information about the Grow Your Own Food – A Container to Food Project and other initiatives by the DuPage County Farm Bureau, contact Kara Norton.
**About DuPage County Farm Bureau:**
The DuPage County Farm Bureau is a leading advocate for agricultural education and community engagement in DuPage County, Illinois. Through innovative programs and strategic partnerships, the organization strives to promote the vital role of agriculture while nurturing future generations of agricultural stewards.
*Media Contact:*
Kara Norton
Executive Director
DuPage County Farm Bureau
(630) 668-8161