97 Milk: Farmers on a Mission to Bring Whole Milk Back to Schools

It all began six years ago when a Pennsylvania dairy farmer painted “97% fat-free milk” on a hay bale to inform people of whole milk's nutritional value. That simple act sparked a grassroots movement called 97 Milk, which works to educate consumers, support dairy farmers, and bring whole milk back to schools, while connecting farmers, families, and communities along the way.

In New York, that mission is being carried forward by three farmers: Duane Spaulding, Jay Hoyt, and Ann Diefendorf—the team behind 3 Farmers Who Care.

Through their involvement with 97 Milk, the group focuses on milk education and community outreach. At fairs, markets, and local events, they host milk sampling and share information that helps consumers better understand where their milk comes from and why whole milk matters. Their goal is to reconnect families with real dairy farmers and highlight the nutritional value of fresh, full-fat milk.

Duane, Jay, and Ann have seen firsthand how milk education can make an impact. Studies have shown that when schools serve whole milk, students drink more of it and waste less. The 3 Farmers Who Care believe that access to whole milk can help strengthen both children’s health and local farm economies. It’s about helping families understand the value of full-fat milk and how it supports growth, energy, and a healthy future.

Beyond their outreach work, Duane and his business partner are working to revive a local feed mill. Their goal is to build it into both a thriving business and a community gathering place for local markets and events.

What drives them is a shared belief in working together. They see 97 Milk as a movement that has the power to create positive change. That change begins when people unite around common goals: healthier kids, stronger farms, and more informed communities.

The 3 Farmers Who Care are proof that when dedication and collaboration come together, good things can grow. Their work reminds us that New York’s dairy farmers do more than produce milk. They help preserve tradition, support community health, and strengthen the connections that keep our rural communities thriving.

Watch our spotlight video on 97 Milk here:  https://youtu.be/t8U7-CcSzbw