Fleming: $76,392 in federal funding to encourage healthy snacking in area schools
Rep. Justin Fleming August 16, 2023 | 10:25 AM
HARRISBURG, Aug. 16 – State Rep. Justin Fleming, D-Dauphin, today announced $76,392 in state funding has been awarded two area schools to provide fruits and vegetables to students under the federal Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program.
- South Side Elementary School $21,384
- Phillips Elementary School $43,180
Through the program, the schools will receive reimbursement for the cost of making free fresh fruits and vegetables available to students during the school day. The fresh fruits and vegetables must be provided separately from the lunch or breakfast meal in one or more areas of the school during the school day.
“We know that teaching our kids healthy eating habits from an early age is critical to maintaining a healthy relationship with food for a lifetime,” Fleming said. “Our schools are one of the best places for them to learn how to eat healthily. Thanks to this federal funding, our schools can help us teach our kids to make smart, healthy choices at snack time by making tasty fresh fruits and vegetables available to them.”
The goal of FFVP is to introduce children to fresh fruits and vegetables, to include new and different varieties, and to increase overall acceptance and consumption of fresh, unprocessed produce. Additionally, the program promotes nutrition education, resulting in healthier school environments for learners.
To be eligible, schools must participate in the National School Lunch Program. FFVP prioritizes schools with the highest percentage of children eligible for free and reduced-price meals in order to give children from low-income families more opportunities to consume fresh produce on a regular basis.
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