Fresh Picks & Big Smiles: Our Farmers Market is Back!

Last fall, we launched a brand-new Chefs for Kids initiative: our very own Eat a Rainbow Farmers Market. What started as a small pilot program has quickly become one of the most exciting, hands-on ways we teach kids that fruits and vegetables aren’t just healthy—they’re fun, colorful, and delicious.

The day begins with a nutrition lesson where students learn all about the “rainbow of produce” and why eating a variety of colors helps keep their bodies strong. They even get to sample different fruits and veggies—in this case, green and orange tastings! (You can read more about that tasting lesson here.) And trust us: once one kid at a table gives the “this is actually good!” nod, the rest are all in.

A Rainbow of Answers—And a Window Into Their World

As our educator, Ms. Momii, walks through each color of the rainbow, she invites students to shout out fruits and vegetables they know. Usually we hear the everyday favorites—“apples,” “peppers,” “mushrooms.” But this time, some students lit up and offered foods they know from home: “lychee,” “ginger,” “coconut.”

Moments like these remind us that a child’s world of food is shaped by what is available in their kitchen and in the school cafeteria. Some kids have tried dozens of produce items. Others have only tasted a handful. That’s why Chefs for Kids focuses so strongly on exposure: tasting new foods, discovering new flavors, and feeling empowered to try something different.

And the Farmers Market takes that mission one step further by sending kids home with a bag full of produce they may never have had the chance to try before.

Making Healthy Eating Feel Personal—and Fun

We’ve learned that the best way to get kids excited about fruits and vegetables is to meet them where they are. When Ms. Momii brings up mushrooms, someone inevitably says, “Like in Super Mario Brothers!” When we pull out peaches, it’s only a matter of seconds before a student busts out their best “Peaches, peaches, peaches!” impression from the movie.

If pop culture references are what spark curiosity? We’re here for it. Anything that makes kids smile, ask questions, and want to try something new is a win in our book. Healthy habits grow from moments of fun and familiarity—and those moments matter.

Farmers Market Goodies: What Students Brought Home

Each student left with a reusable bag filled with produce chosen to support both healthy snacking and family meals. Altogether, this Farmers Market event provided 2,106 fruit and vegetable consumptions or additions to household meals.

Students received: 2 Red Pears, 2 Sweet Potatoes, 2 Golden Kiwi, 1 Can of Blueberries, 2 Jicama, 1 Navel Oranges, 1 Box of Arugula & Spinach

Not only do these items fuel young bodies—they’re also conversation starters at home. Kids love showing their families what they picked out and learned about. Parents love discovering new produce with their children. It’s a shared learning experience that brings healthier choices into the household.

Growing Impact—With Your Help

During the first year of this initiative, 599 children took home a produce bag—creating more than 10,782 opportunities for fruits and vegetables to make it into meals and snacks. As we enter year two, we’re more committed than ever to making healthy eating accessible, approachable, and exciting for kids across our community.

If you believe all children should have the chance to develop healthy habits—and the nourishment to support them—you can help us expand this program.

Your donation helps us put fresh produce, nutrition lessons, and healthier futures directly into the hands of children who need it most. Donate Today!