HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Elementary students within Hutchinson USD 308 are receiving fresh produce during the school day as a part of a new Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) from the United States Department of Agriculture.
All eight elementary schools are benefitting from the program which will serve 53,015 students across Kansas through a $3.3 million award to the state.
Participating schools will provide fresh fruit and vegetables to students at no charge. Through the program, students will have the opportunity to learn more about how to incorporate fresh produce into a nutritious diet.
“Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program is a great program that allows our students to experience a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables outside of the cafeteria,” Jennifer Tatro, Director of Nutrition Services for USD 308 said, “Elementary students are served a fresh fruit or vegetable twice a week in their classroom. In addition to the produce, we also provide classroom teachers a nutrition education facts sheet to share with students as they are enjoying the fresh fruit or vegetable. We partner with Smith's Market to help source the produce served.”
According to the USDA, the goals of the FFVP are to introduce children to fresh fruits and vegetables; to include new and different varieties; and to increase overall acceptance of fresh, unprocessed produce among children. The FFVP also encourages healthier school environments by promoting nutrition education.
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