In an op-ed published Dec. 17, 2025, in the Detroit News, Dr. Tim Boring, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD), introduces the Good Food for Michigan project as an innovative effort to connect local farmers and growers to schools, hospitals
and other institutions that feed Michiganders.
“This partnership will connect food producers with institutions and effectively tap into the power of procurement,” Boring said. “Together, we will be able to strengthen regional food systems and equip community colleges, schools, hospitals and other institutions with tools they need to assess how their funds are utilized and expand access to nutritious, locally grown and prepared foods. By helping institutions purchase Michigan-grown foods, we can create new opportunities for farmers to sell to regional partners, improve local access to nutritious foods and build healthier, more resilient economies and communities.”
