The Great Falls Public Library is proud to announce it has become the fourth location in Montana to launch a Charlie Cart program, thanks to generous funding from the Great Falls Public Library Foundation. Joining Helena Food Share, Belgrade Middle School, and the Billings Public Library, GFPL is now part of an innovative nationwide movement transforming how young people learn about food and nutrition.
The Charlie Cart – a mobile, self-contained teaching kitchen – will enable the Library to provide dynamic, hands-on nutrition education that goes far beyond traditional learning. This exciting addition means GFPL can now offer engaging community partnership programming and cultural food education experiences, including special culinary components to complement the popular Armchair Traveler Series.
Research shows that hands-on food education creates lasting impact. According to the Charlie Cart Project, children who participate in cooking and nutrition programs are more likely to try new foods, understand where their food comes from, and develop confidence in the kitchen – skills that translate into healthier choices throughout their lives. The Charlie Cart Project’s own data demonstrates that students in their programs show increased willingness to taste new foods and improved knowledge about nutrition basics.
“We’re thrilled to bring this transformative resource to Great Falls,” said Sarah Cawley, Community Engagement Coordinator. “The Charlie Cart aligns perfectly with our mission to serve as a connection point and enhance the quality of life by providing individuals access to social and cultural resources.”
Founded in 2014 by educator and mom Carolyn Federman, former Director of the renowned Edible Schoolyard Project, The Charlie Cart Project is a nationwide nonprofit on a mission to “make hands-on food education accessible everywhere children gather to learn so that kids have the knowledge and confidence to make healthy food choices for life.”
Today, the Charlie Cart Network has grown to include 500+ member sites spanning schools, libraries, food banks, health clinics, and community organizations across the United States. To learn more about the science and impact behind hands-on food education, visit charliecart.org or listen to their podcast exploring food education topics.
The Great Falls Public Library’s Charlie Cart program will launch in Spring 2026, with programming currently being developed.
For more information, contact Jake Sorich at jsorich@greatfallslibrary.org or 406-453-0349 ex. 220.
By Jake Sorich, Great Falls Public Library: November 18, 2025 – Great Falls, Mt
Author: Staff
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