HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) recently announced that 268 schools will receive nearly $7.3 million in federal grant funding to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to students. This funding is part of the federal Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) and complements the universal free breakfast program that Governor Shapiro has championed and secured for two consecutive years.
“Access to healthy food options gives our students the fuel they need in order to learn, grow, and achieve,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program helps learners across the Commonwealth access nutritious foods and create healthy habits that benefit them both in the classroom and at home – at no cost to students or their families.”
The FFVP is designed to introduce children to a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, promote nutrition education, and improve the overall dietary habits of students. Schools selected for the program receive reimbursements to cover the costs of making free fresh fruits and vegetables available during the school day, separate from breakfast or lunch meals.
The primary goal of the FFVP is to increase the acceptance and consumption of fresh, unprocessed produce among students. The program also aims to create healthier school environments by providing nutritious food options and encouraging healthy eating habits.
To be eligible for the program, schools must participate in the National School Lunch Program. The FFVP prioritizes schools with the highest percentage of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. This prioritization ensures that children from low-income families have greater access to fresh produce on a regular basis.
The list of schools awarded the FFVP grant can be found on the PDE’s website.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by the state to support student health and well-being. Governor Shapiro’s administration has made significant strides in ensuring that all students have access to nutritious meals and snacks throughout the school day. This effort is particularly important in creating equitable opportunities for students to succeed academically and develop lifelong healthy eating habits.
The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, combined with the universal free breakfast initiative, reflects a comprehensive approach to student nutrition and health. These programs aim to address food insecurity and ensure that all students have the necessary resources to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
As schools implement the FFVP, they will also incorporate nutrition education to help students understand the benefits of healthy eating. This educational component is crucial in fostering an environment where nutritious food choices become a natural part of students’ daily lives.
Overall, the allocation of nearly $7.3 million in grant funding for the FFVP aims to improve student health and the promotion of healthy eating habits. Through these efforts, the state aims to create a brighter, healthier future for its youngest residents.
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