CNP fresh fruits and vegitables

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the Arkansas Department of Agriculture $879,419.74 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 under the National School Lunch Program.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture selected eligible elementary schools based on the proportion of students receiving free or reduced-price meals and entered into agreements with school food authorities to operate the program. Participating schools serve fresh produce to all enrolled children during the school day at no charge, with the goal of introducing students to fresh fruits and vegetables, including new and different varieties, and increasing overall consumption of unprocessed produce. Schools must be currently participating in the National School Lunch Program and must publicize fresh fruit and vegetable availability on campus.

The award covers the period October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, with place of performance in Arkansas. The assistance type is a Project Grant, funded via a federal-state agreement under which the State agency retains responsibility for school selection, agreement execution, and compliance with federal program requirements.