Merski, Harkins: Erie schools awarded $441,672 for fresh fruit, vegetables
Rep. Robert Merski August 9, 2024 | 4:02 PM
ERIE, Aug. 9 – Building on their collaborative initiative to ensure Erie schools are supplied with nutritious, fresh food choices, state Reps. Bob Merski and Pat Harkins, both D-Erie, announced that schools across Erie County will receive $441,672 via the federal Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program.
“Every child deserves access to nutritious food, and this initiative is a giant leap toward that goal,” Merski said. “We are not just nourishing bodies; we are nurturing minds. This is an investment in our youth, in our community, and in the very fabric of our society.”
Harkins said, “By ensuring access to nutritious food, we are setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy choices and academic excellence. Our children deserve the best, and I am proud to say that, with this funding, we are delivering just that."
The funding is provided by the National School Lunch Program, supplementing the $46.5 million boost already obtained for the universal free breakfast program, a key initiative advocated by Merski and Harkins in the 2024-25 state budget. Since its inception, the program has delivered over 23 million breakfasts to students throughout the Commonwealth.