Local Products Fundraiser Gives Schools Fresh New Alternative

Parents fed up with selling wrapping paper, overpriced candy and tins of stale popcorn are thrilled to have a new fundraising option. Over thirty schools in Southern Wisconsin are participating in the 2009 Wisconsin Homegrown Holiday Fundraiser.

Sponsored by REAP Food Group, a nonprofit bringing farm-to-school programming to schools in Dane County, the fundraiser is in its fifth year and continues to gain momentum and gather fans among parents of local students. Fundraiser organizers anticipate sales will exceed $50,000, bringing much needed funds to area school programs.

Products available through the fundraiser include a wide selection of locally-made, hand-crafted and fairly-traded items such as: chocolate covered Door County cherries; rich maple syrup; specialty jams, crackers and cheeses; naturally scented soaps; and much much more.

A complete list of participating schools and product choices can be found on the REAP website www.reapfoodgroup.org. Funds raised by this sale go directly to the school groups and students, as well as the local producers and business owners. Please visit REAP's website for more details on how to participate.

REAP is also offering specialty gift boxes and other local products directly to consumers. Purchase of these items will support REAP's farm-to-school program.

Order deadline is November 12th.