MADISON, WI (WTAQ) - Wisconsin agriculture officials are trying to get local groups to join a program that encourages healthy eating in K-12 schools.

The program is called “Farm to School.” The federal government provides the money, and the state is working with the AmeriCorps volunteer program to help schools get locally-produced items to their youngsters.

The goal is to reduce childhood obesity.

Additional state agencies are being encouraged to get on board, along with universities and non-profit organizations.

The deadline to apply is April 26th.

AmeriCorps said it received 23 applications a year ago, and chose 7 groups to be in the “Farm to School” program.