Schools to participate in fresh fruit and vegetable program

A total of 73 elementary schools in Delaware will receive funding to participate in the United States Department of Agriculture Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program during the 2016-17 school year. Schools were awarded funding through a competitive application process. Each year the state receives a grant from the USDA specifically allocated for the program. The state must then select schools to participate, with priority given to schools with the highest free and reduced-price meals enrollment.

The purpose of the program is to increase fresh fruit and fresh vegetable consumption in elementary schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program.

"The fruit and vegetable program can be an important catalyst for change in combating childhood obesity by increasing fresh fruit and vegetable consumption and encouraging healthier eating habits," said Secretary of Education Steve Godowsky.

Selected schools receive reimbursement for the cost of providing free fresh fruits and vegetables to students. These fresh fruits and vegetables must be served separately from the lunch or breakfast meal, in one or more areas of the school during the official school day. Corresponding nutrition education is critical to the program's success.

Within basic requirements, the program gives schools the flexibility to develop their own implementation plan, and involve teachers and other school staff. Each school decides when, where and how to implement the program.

Local elementary schools that received grants include East Millsboro, Evelyn I. Morris Early Childhood Center in Milford, Georgetown Elementary, H.O. Brittingham in Milton, Long Neck Elementary, Milton Elementary, Mispillion Elementary in Milford, North Georgetown Elementary, Rehoboth Elementary School and Richard A. Shields in Lewes.