CNP fresh fruits and vegitables

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education $4.587 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 children eligible for free or reduced price meals.

The award funds the identification and support of eligible elementary schools participating in the National School Lunch Program, with schools selected based on the highest percentages of students receiving free or reduced price meals. Participating schools receive federal funding to distribute fresh produce to all enrolled children during the school day, with the goal of introducing students to fresh fruits and vegetables, including new and different varieties, and increasing overall acceptance and consumption of fresh, unprocessed produce among this population. Schools must also support nutrition education initiatives.

The period of performance runs through September 30, 2026. Work is performed in Missouri.

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education passed funding through to eleven sub-recipients across Missouri, each designated to implement the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program at their respective elementary schools or school districts. Sub-recipients include Kipp Saint Louis Public Schools, The Niles Home For Children (KVC Behavioral Healthcare Missouri, Inc.), Brookside Charter School (Bsds Inc.), Scott County Central School District, Richwoods R-Vii School District, Higbee R-Viii School District, Kingston K-14, Board of Education of the City of St. Louis, County of Henry School District R-14 (Montrose Elementary School), Lakeland R-3 School District, and Community R-V I School. Sub-awards were issued in July and August 2026.