Borowski announces state funding for student enrichment program based in Newtown Square
Garrett Williamson’s school-to-farm field trips provide hands-on education
Rep. Lisa Borowski January 10, 2024 | 11:17 AM
NEWTOWN SQUARE, Jan. 10 – Following advocacy from state Rep. Lisa Borowski, D-Delaware, the Department of Agriculture this week awarded a $7,500 grant to Garrett Williamson to help fund its school-to-farm field trips program.
The funding comes from the PA Farm Bill Agriculture and Youth Grants program, which aims to support projects that prepare youth to succeed in Pennsylvania’s $132.5 billion agriculture industry.
Established in 1912, Garrett Williamson provides hands-on education and recreation at its 24-acre historic farm property in Newtown Square, with a focus on nature and farming.
“I’ve long been a fan of the education Garrett Williamson provides to children in Delaware County, and enjoyed learning all about their history, current programs, and plans for the future when I visited the farm in March as a new state representative,” Borowski said. “Our work to maintain Pennsylvania’s status as a leader in agriculture depends on piquing students’ interest in the classroom – or in this case, on the farm!”
"We are thrilled to be able to offer this exciting and unique School-to-Farm Field Trip opportunity to students in under-resourced schools in the Philadelphia area,” said Carol Kaplan Ruark, executive director of Garrett Williamson. “This place-based education program will immerse children in a world of curiosity, fostering their joy of learning.”
Since 2019, Ag and Youth Grants have invested just under $2 million in 194 projects statewide. Overall, more than $150 million in projects and initiatives to grow Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry have been funded through the PA Farm Bill.
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