FFVP introduces students to fresh produce

The USDA's Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Program is a great way for eligible schools to introduce students to a variety of fresh produce and increase their consumption of unprocessed fruits and vegetables. CKC client schools already participating the program have found it to be easy to implement and welcomed by students and staff.

The Minnesota Department of Education will make the 2019-2020 FFVP application available in February. If your school is an elementary school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and serves a high percentage of students qualifying for free and reduced-price lunches, start talking about the program now to determine how it could be incorporated into your school day. FFVP produce is to be offered free to students and outside your regular breakfast and lunch offerings - as a morning or afternoon snack, for example. Schools are reimbursed $50 to $75 per student for the school year, depending on funds allocated to the state from the USDA.

If your school is eligible and your application approved, CKC will provide you with a monthly FFVP menu designating the produce to be offered each day during the month. The produce is provided to schools in cases of individual 30 pieces, which can easily be parceled out to classrooms. Participating schools can offer produce every day; at least twice a week is required. Make sure to submit your application by the deadline, which will be in March or April.

For more information, visit the FFVP website, download the FFVP fact sheet or contact us at CKC (651.453.1136). You may also participate in MDE's  "Tuesdays @ 2" webinar on the program on Tuesday, March 9. Learn more and register.