CNP fresh fruits and vegitables

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the Montana Office of Public Instruction $2.82 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 receiving free or reduced price meals.

The Montana Office of Public Instruction administers the program statewide, selecting eligible elementary schools currently participating in the National School Lunch Program and entering into agreements with school food authorities to ensure schools serve fresh produce free to all enrolled children and meet federal nutrition education requirements. The award period runs through September 30, 2026, with performance in Montana.

As of February 28, 2026, the Office of Public Instruction had distributed sub-awards to at least three participating school entities: Kalispell School District 5 (Flathead High School), Helena Public School District (C R Anderson Middle School), and Big Horn County School District 17H & 1. These sub-grantees receive funding to operate the fresh fruit and vegetable distribution program at their schools in accordance with federal requirements.