CNP fresh fruits and vegitables

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the Michigan Department of Education $5.935 million for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program on October 1, 2025, covering the period through September 30, 2026. The award funds distribution of free fresh fruits and vegetables to elementary schools with high percentages of children eligible for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program, with the goal of increasing consumption of fresh, unprocessed produce and promoting nutrition education among eligible students.

The Michigan Department of Education passes funds through federal-state agreements to participating school food authorities and individual elementary schools that meet income-eligibility criteria. The state agency selects schools based on the highest percentages of children eligible for free and reduced-price meals and enters into agreements requiring schools to operate the program according to federal requirements, serve produce free to all enrolled children, and publicize availability within the school.

Thirty sub-recipients across Michigan implement the program at the school district level, including Detroit Public Schools Community District, Dearborn Public School District, Flint Community Schools, Muskegon Public Schools, Wayne-Westland Community Schools, Lansing School District, and 24 additional school districts and public school academies. Each sub-recipient administers fresh fruit and vegetable distribution at their participating elementary schools and coordinates with their school food authorities to meet program requirements. Place of performance is Michigan, USA.