Federal Grant Award Summary

The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction received a $6.25 million Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Child Nutrition Division under the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (CFDA 10.582) for the period October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. The award funds the procurement and distribution of free fresh fruits and vegetables to elementary schools across North Carolina 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 education agency administering this program, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction will select eligible elementary schools based on free and reduced-price meal eligibility percentages and sub-award portions of grant funding to local school districts and school food authorities for direct implementation. Participating schools must be enrolled in the National School Lunch Program and agree to serve fresh produce at no cost to all children while publicizing availability throughout the school environment. The program requires support from school food managers, principals, and district superintendents to ensure successful implementation across participating schools.