CNP fresh fruits and vegitables

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded $5.475911 million to the Commonwealth of Virginia State Board of Education on October 1, 2025, to provide free fresh fruits and vegetables to elementary schools with high percentages of children eligible for free or reduced-price meals through the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (CFDA 10.582). The award period runs through September 30, 2026, and performance occurs in Virginia.

The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) introduces children to fresh produce during the school day and promotes nutrition education. The State Board of Education, as the primary state education agency, selects participating elementary schools based on the highest percentages of children eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program. Schools must agree to serve fresh fruits and vegetables at no charge to all enrolled children and to publicize produce availability. Participating schools operate under a federal-state agreement stipulating compliance with federal program requirements.

The recipient passed funding through to 31 sub-recipients across Virginia's public school districts, including Accomack County, Alexandria City, Bristol, Brunswick County, Buchanan County, Carroll County, Chesterfield County, Dickenson County, Dinwiddie County, Fairfax County, Greensville County, Halifax County, Harrisonburg City, Page County, Prince Edward County, Prince William County, Roanoke City, Richmond City, Norfolk City, Newport News, Martinsville City, Smyth County, and other districts. Sub-awards were obligated between December 5, 2025, and July 23, 2026. Each sub-recipient school district administers the program at its eligible elementary schools, procuring and distributing fresh produce directly to students.