CNP fresh fruits and vegitables

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the Illinois State Board of Education $6.825 million on October 1, 2025, under the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (CFDA 10.582) to provide free fresh fruits and vegetables to elementary schools with high percentages of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program. The award period runs through September 30, 2026, and performance takes place in Illinois.

ISBE distributes these funds to elementary schools selected based on free and reduced-price meal eligibility. Under the program, schools are reimbursed for the cost of fresh fruits and vegetables and limited non-food costs. ISBE serves as the administrative pass-through agency and maintains oversight of program compliance.

The award supports sub-awards to approximately 30 school districts and charter school networks across Illinois, including East St. Louis School District 189, Valley View Community SD 365-U, Community Unit School District 60, Belvidere Community Unit School District, Community Unit School District 300, Lawndale Educational and Regional Network Charter School, Chicago Public Schools, Cook County Board of Education District 89, Alton CUSD 11, Danville Community Consolidated School District, Decatur School District No. 61, Zion Elementary School District 6, Springfield School District No. 186, Community Consolidated School District 168, Prairie Hills Elementary School District 144, Midlothian School District 143, Dolton School District 149, Rockford School District Number 205, Berwyn School District 98, Cahokia Unit School District, Rock Island School District 41, and Elementary School District 159. Sub-award dates range from December 2025 through June 2026.