I am writing from my experience as a farmer and someone who believes that food is a basic right and an opportunity to strengthen our communities.
Colorado’s Healthy School Meals for All Program doesn’t just tackle food insecurity — it also drives a powerful Local Food Purchasing initiative. This lesser-known vital component allows schools to source fresh, nutritious food directly from Colorado farmers and ranchers — a critical link in our local food system, now at risk.
It’s understandable that funding concerns can raise difficult questions especially when budgets are tight and priorities compete. For many of us in the agricultural and educational communities, the HSMA program is more than policy — it’s a lifeline.
Farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our food system, and they struggle to compete with industrial-scale operations. By keeping money in our communities through HSMA, we are supporting small and mid-sized farms and creating a stronger, more resilient food system for all of us.
As a first-generation farmer and CEO of a local food company, I’ve seen firsthand how this program uplifts our state’s agricultural producers. In 2024 alone, nearly $300,000 was directed to Colorado farmers and ranchers through our distribution and sales to school districts committed to local food procurement. That’s real money staying in our communities — supporting family farms, creating jobs, and building a food system that’s more resilient and responsive to local needs.
The legislature is currently considering House Bill 25-1274, legislation to fully fund and ensure long-term stability of the program. It would also expand local purchasing programs, ensuring that Colorado-grown food finds its way onto Colorado kids’ plates. We know that increased demand for local produce, meat and dairy can boost the local economy, creating jobs and strengthening the agricultural sector while helping to meet students’ nutritional needs.
This isn’t just a win for kids or farmers — it’s a win for Colorado. Let’s not just celebrate the shared value in that — let’s protect it.
Sincerely,
Roberto Meza, first-generation farmer and CEO of Hearty Provisions
