Wisconsin Food Hub Connects Farmers with School Markets

By Blake Jackson

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is supporting efforts to expand access to fresh, locally grown produce in Wisconsin schools and childcare centers through funding provided by the Value-Added Producer Grants (VAPG) program.

The investment benefits the farmer-owned Wisconsin Food Hub Cooperative (WFHC), a Waupaca-based organization that connects local growers with larger institutional markets.

Many of the cooperative’s members began by selling produce at Wisconsin farmers markets before expanding into broader distribution channels. Cattail Organics, based in Athens, is one of those farms.

The operation participates in both the Wausau Farmers Market and the WFHC initiative, helping supply fresh vegetables to schools and childcare programs across the state.

“Farmers markets can be steppingstones for agriculture producers aspiring to reach larger markets, such as schools, food pantries, cooperatives, and more,” said Cattail Organics Owner Kat Becker.

“Once kids taste carrots that are freshly grown, it is a totally different experience, they're a lot sweeter and a lot more flavorful. Fresh vegetables, especially those within our community, feeding our state, those make the biggest impact.”

Another participating farm, Red Door Family Farm in Athens, also sells at the Wausau Farmers Market and contributes produce through the cooperative. “It’s giving the kids in this county a lifetime of learning how to eat vegetables,” said owner Stacey Botsford.

On August 8, 2026, Cattail Organics and Red Door Family Farm will host the annual Farm to Feast dinner at Rockridge Orchard in Edgar, with proceeds supporting the United Way Hunger Coalition.

Another cooperative member, Alum Sweet Corn in Randolph, recently introduced Inferno Romaine lettuce and popcorn that can be popped directly on the cob and will celebrate its 50th anniversary on August 16.

“From farm fields to schools and childcare centers, this USDA investment will expand the availability of nutritious options for children across the state so they can learn and grow,” said USDA Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson.

The VAPG program helps agricultural producers develop value-added products, strengthen marketing opportunities, and increase farm income. In fiscal year 2025, USDA invested nearly $2 million in nine Wisconsin projects through the program.

Photo Credit: getty-images-eric-ferguson