More than 30,000 students in 90 Kentucky elementary schools will enjoy fresh produce this school year as part of a federal Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) implemented through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The FFVP provides all children in participating schools with a variety of free fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the school day. It is an effective and creative way of introducing fresh fruits and vegetables as healthy snack options. The FFVP also encourages community partnerships to support the schools when they offer free fruit and vegetables to children during the school day.

The goal of the FFVP is to:

  • create healthier school environments by providing healthier food choices
  • expand the variety of fruits and vegetables children experience
  • increase children’s fruit and vegetable consumption
  • make a difference in children’s diets to impact their present and future health

School selection was based upon submitted applications from elementary schools that operate the National School Lunch Program and that have 50 percent or more of their students eligible for free/reduced-price meals. Priority was given to schools with the highest percentage of eligible students.

Kentucky received $1,842,089 for the 2010-11 school year. Each participating school will receive funds to operate the program based on approximately $55 per student enrolled as reported in October 2009.

MORE INFO…
http://www.fns.usda.gov