CNP fresh fruits and vegitables

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the Texas Department of Agriculture $13.255 million on October 1, 2025, for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (CFDA 10.582), a project grant funding distribution of free fresh fruits and vegetables to elementary schools with high percentages of children eligible for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program. The award runs through September 30, 2026, and is performed in Texas.

The program targets elementary schools with the highest concentrations of low-income students currently participating in the National School Lunch Program. Schools selected must agree to serve fresh fruits and vegetables free to all enrolled children and publicize availability within the school, with documented support from the school food manager, principal, and district superintendent. The Texas Department of Agriculture selects schools based on free and reduced-price meal eligibility percentages, with no appeal process for schools not selected.

The Texas Department of Agriculture distributes the bulk of funding as sub-awards to 39 school district sub-grantees across Texas, including Vernon Independent School District, Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District, Laredo ISD, Waco Independent School District, Fort Worth Independent School District, Houston Independent School District, San Antonio Independent School District, Dallas Independent School District, and 31 additional school districts. Sub-recipients deliver the fresh fruit and vegetable program at their respective elementary campuses during the school day, with the goal of introducing children to fresh produce varieties and increasing overall acceptance and consumption of unprocessed fruits and vegetables while promoting nutrition education and healthier school environments.