Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program for 2011-12 - Now Accepting Applications

The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) provides all enrolled students in participating elementary 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 students during the school day.

For school year 2011-12, the grant application process has now begun. To be eligible to apply, a school must have a reported FRP percentage of at least 50%, based on the published October school data (OSPI Bulletin No. B005-11.) While all schools with a FRP ≥50% may apply for participation, the following provides specific guidance for the 2011-12 school year FFVP:

• Schools with a FRP ≥84.2% will receive the grant.
• Schools with a FRP ≥72% < 84.2% are strongly encouraged to apply.

For more information, visit OSPI Child Nutrition. The application is on the right side in the box titled 'Additional Information'

USDA Expands Access to Fresh Fruits and Vegetables for Schools Across the Nation

USDA Expands Access to Fresh Fruits and Vegetables for Schools Across the Nation

Investment Aims to Improve Nutrition and Provide Economic Opportunities to Producers

WASHINGTON, March 23, 2010 — Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that, as authorized by the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 (2008 Farm Bill), USDA will expand assistance to state agencies for schools operating USDA's Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) in the 2011/2012 school year. The investment is part of the Obama administration's efforts to improve the health of our children by providing access to nutritious meals in schools and also serves as a valuable resource to schools that continue working to improve the health and nutrition of the foods they serve. The assistance will provide free fresh fruit and vegetables to children throughout the school day.

"Improving the health and nutrition of our kids is a national imperative and by providing schools with fresh fruits and vegetables that expand their healthy options, we are helping our kids to have a brighter, healthier future," said Vilsack. "Every time our kids eat a piece of fruit or a vegetable, they are learning healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime."

Full USDA Press Release

Learn more about the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program in Washington

Washington will receive: $3,244,569