Release No. 0208.08
Contact: Jean Daniel (703) 305-2281
Printable version
USDA Readies Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Purchases for
Elementary Schools
WASHINGTON, Aug. 6, 2008- Agriculture Secretary Ed Schafer today announced
that $49 million will be provided in fresh fruits and vegetables for elementary
school children during the school day. The 2008 farm bill amended the Richard B.
Russell National School Lunch Act by adding section 19, the Fresh Fruit and
Vegetable Program. This new section replaces a previous program in a limited
number of states, and expands fresh fruits and vegetables to selected schools in
the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin
Islands.
"Fresh produce for children at school gives them an early start on healthy
eating habits that can stay with them after school, and throughout their lives,"
said Schafer. "This program will help educate students about the importance of
good nutrition, including eating fresh fruit and vegetables. We know that far
too many young people are struggling with being overweight and even obese. Now,
more than ever, children need our help in building good eating habits so they
can have a long and healthy life."
All students in participating schools receive fresh fruits and vegetables at
no cost where a high proportion of children are eligible to receive free- or
reduced-price school meals. In addition to more choice, their routines may grow
to add fruits and vegetables into their daily meal choices outside of school.
The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program is targeted to students in the neediest
elementary schools in each state. Schools may apply for funding to operate this
program on an annual basis. The Farm Bill makes available $40 million during the
upcoming school years: 2008-2009, $65 million for 2009-2010, $101 million for
2010-2011, and $150 million for 2011-2012. Subsequent yearly funding is indexed
for inflation. State funding levels are allocated through a formula and will be
available October 1, 2008. Schools are encouraged to implement the Fresh Fruit
and Vegetable Program in partnership with non-federal organizations. In addition
to the money made available by the Farm Bill, approximately $9 million was made
available in the 2008 Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 110-161) for
distribution to States in support of school year 2008-2009 activity.
Total Allocation per State for School Yr 08-09
(Includes $40 million in farm bill funding and funds from previous
appropriations)
Total budget authority |
$48,889,165 |
Alabama |
$858,995 |
Alaska |
$624,700 |
Arizona |
$960,622 |
Arkansas |
$752,488 |
California |
$2,755,357 |
Colorado |
$872,875 |
Connecticut |
$792,138 |
Delaware |
$635,468 |
District of Columbia |
$619,046 |
Florida |
$1,668,223 |
Georgia |
$1,151,058 |
Hawaii |
$660,334 |
Idaho |
$673,166 |
Illinois |
$1,347,541 |
Indiana |
$1,089,732 |
Iowa |
$1,096,646 |
Kansas |
$748,995 |
Kentucky |
$836,044 |
Louisiana |
$839,117 |
Maine |
$662,343 |
Maryland |
$917,830 |
Massachusetts |
$967,216 |
Michigan |
$1,182,366 |
Minnesota |
$892,839 |
Mississippi |
$1,165,133 |
Missouri |
$933,278 |
Montana |
$640,998 |
Nebraska |
$689,511 |
Nevada |
$736,485 |
New Hampshire |
$662,261 |
New Jersey |
$1,100,044 |
New Mexico |
$707,123 |
New York |
$1,730,384 |
North Carolina |
$1,149,963 |
North Dakota |
$622,100 |
Ohio |
$1,265,235 |
Oklahoma |
$798,969 |
Oregon |
$806,700 |
Pennsylvania |
$1,322,607 |
Rhode Island |
$646,936 |
South Carolina |
$845,919 |
South Dakota |
$631,396 |
Tennessee |
$949,810 |
Texas |
$2,004,018 |
Utah |
$749,302 |
Vermont |
$621,004 |
Virginia |
$1,042,198 |
Washington |
$988,055 |
West Virginia |
$691,736 |
Wisconsin |
$916,838 |
Wyoming |
$615,157 |
Guam |
$10,303 |
Puerto Rico |
$234,122 |
Virgin Islands |
$6,442 |
Last modified:
12/05/2008
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