Snacks for School Program
An Apple a Day
Apple-a-Day is Equity Eats’ school snack initiative that delivers fresh, locally grown apples directly to Rochester-area schools. The program launched with deliveries to select schools in August–September and continues to expand—connecting classrooms to nearby orchards and turning “food rescue” into healthy, everyday snacks for kids.
An Apple a Day Purpose
The purpose of this program is to ensure every student in Rochester, Minnesota has daily access to fresh, local produce—starting with crisp, Minnesota-grown apples—while strengthening our regional food system and supporting the farmers who grow it. This program reduces food waste, improves student nutrition, and keeps food dollars circulating locally.
Why Apples? Why Local?
They’re local and abundant in Minnesota’s fall harvest, making them ideal for consistent, cost-effective school snacks.
Sourcing from nearby growers strengthens our regional food economy and reduces waste through smart redistribution.
How to Get Involved
Be Part of the Infrastructure.
Orchards and distributors can donate surplus or seconds; Equity Eats handles the logistics to keep good food out of landfills and into kids’ hands.
Take Part & Volunteer
Help us sort, pack, and deliver apples to schools. Shifts are flexible; perfect for individuals, teams, or service groups.
Sponsor a School
Underwrite apple deliveries for a classroom, a grade, or an entire school. We’ll recognize sponsors (if desired) and share impact metrics like pounds delivered and students served.
Together, these partners exemplify how civic leadership, collaboration, and compassion can unite communities to strengthen both human health and local economies.
The Apple a Day Project was made possible through the dedication and collaboration of many individuals and organizations committed to food equity, community health, and local farm sustainability in Southeast Minnesota.
Special thanks to:
Mayor Kim Norton for her civic leadership and vision in identifying and addressing food-access gaps.
Local Farmers & Producers whose hard work and quality harvests supplied over 17,500 apple servings and 11,000 pounds of produce.
Olmsted County Food Coalition, for policy guidance, partnership, and resource coordination.
Rochester Public Schools administrators, educators, and staff whose commitment to student well-being made school-based distribution possible.
Volunteers & Community Partners including faith-based groups, student organizations, and civic teams who provided the time, care, and logistical support