Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Grant Summary

The Department of Education Indiana received a $4.82 million Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service under the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (CFDA 10.582) for the performance period of October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. This federally-assisted nutrition initiative provides cash grants to state agencies for procuring and distributing free fresh fruits and vegetables to elementary schools with high percentages of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program. The program's primary objectives include introducing children to fresh produce varieties, increasing consumption of unprocessed fruits and vegetables, and promoting nutrition education in economically disadvantaged school communities.

The Indiana Department of Education, serving as the prime grantee, distributed the funding to numerous sub-awardees including local school districts, charter schools, and educational organizations throughout the state. Sub-recipients documented include major metropolitan school districts such as Indianapolis Public Schools, Fort Wayne Community Schools, and School City Hammond, as well as smaller rural districts and specialized educational entities. Participating schools agree to serve fresh fruits and vegetables at no cost to all enrolled children while publicizing availability within the school environment. Schools selected for participation must be currently enrolled in the National School Lunch Program and demonstrate high percentages of students eligible for free or reduced-price meal benefits, ensuring that resources are directed to the most economically disadvantaged student populations across Indiana.