Additional Produce in Schools

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced an additional $158 million investment in their Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP), reaching an estimated 600,000 to 950,000 more elementary-school students in the next school year. The FFVP, which operates in low-income neighborhoods, will provide a total of about 3.5 million students with $50 to $75 worth of fresh fruits and vegetables per year. The program has been a success with businesses and students alike. Kevin Concannon of the USDA says, “Fortunately, children are learning fruits and vegetables are healthy choices and tasty alternatives to snacks high in fat, sugar, or salt.”