Federal Grant Award Summary

The Nebraska Department of Education received a $3.12 million Project Grant award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service under the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (CFDA 10.582) for the period October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. This award funds the provision of free fresh fruits and vegetables to elementary schools across Nebraska with high percentages of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program. The program aims to introduce children to fresh produce varieties, increase consumption of unprocessed fruits and vegetables, and promote nutrition education in economically disadvantaged school communities.

As the state administering agency, the Nebraska Department of Education is responsible for selecting eligible elementary schools based on free and reduced-price meal eligibility percentages and distributing grant funds to participating schools through sub-award agreements. Participating schools must be enrolled in the National School Lunch Program and agree to serve the fresh produce at no cost to all enrolled children while publicizing availability within the school environment. School food authorities execute formal agreements with the state agency stipulating compliance with federal program requirements, including signatures of support from school food managers, principals, and district superintendents.