Federal Grant Award Summary

The Child Nutrition Division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded the Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education a $4.9 million Project Grant under the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (CFDA 10.582) for the performance period of October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. This grant provides funding to procure and distribute free fresh fruits and vegetables to elementary schools across Massachusetts with the highest percentages of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program. The Massachusetts DESE will serve as the state administering agency, selecting eligible schools and establishing agreements with school food authorities to ensure compliance with federal program requirements.

Under this award, participating elementary schools will receive fresh produce at no cost to all enrolled students while promoting nutrition education and introducing children to new fruit and vegetable varieties. Schools must be actively enrolled in the National School Lunch Program and demonstrate administrative support from school food managers, principals, and district superintendents. Massachusetts DESE will distribute the $4.9 million grant allocation to selected schools and educational partners for direct program implementation, targeting the economically disadvantaged student populations most in need of improved nutrition access and education.