The Minnesota Department of Agriculture will award up to $220,000 to eligible schools and early child care institutions to increase students’ access to Minnesota dairy. The MDA’s Agricultural Growth, Research and Innovation Milk Cooler Grant program provides grant funding to schools for milk coolers and milk dispensing equipment, according to a press release.

“Dairy is a great source of protein, calcium and vitamin D,” said Assistant Commissioner Patrice Bailey. “Children are more likely to become lifelong consumers of nutritious milk and other dairy products if they have access to it in their school.”

She said the goal is to invest in education institutions across the state, to keep students healthy and to benefit Minnesota’s farmers.

Schools and other educational institutions that purchase milk coolers for their meal programs are eligible to apply for up to $1,500 per proposal. A maximum of three proposals will be accepted for each organization or school district. Eligible costs include the cost of the equipment and associated installation expenses.

Applications for equipment grants must be submitted by 4 p.m. on April 17, 2020. For more information and to apply, please visit www.mda.state.mn.us/milkcooler.