Donahue: More than $246,000 awarded to encourage healthy snacking in area schools

Rep. Kyle T. Donahue    August 16, 2023

HARRISBURG, Aug. 16 – State Rep. Kyle Donahue today announced $246,240 in funding has been awarded to 10 area schools to provide fruits and vegetables to students under the federal Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program.

The grants include:

  • $49,392 to Isaac Tripp Elementary School.
  • $31,392 to John G. Whittier #2.
  • $29,952 to Neil Armstrong #40.
  • $25,848 to Frances Willard #32.
  • $24,840 to McNichols Plaza.
  • $22,464 to John F. Kennedy #7.
  • $16,632 to Charles Sumner #18.
  • $16,560 to William Prescott #38.
  • $15,408 to Robert Morris #27.
  • $13,752 to John Adams #4.

“We know that the earlier we introduce healthy habits, the more likely kids will stick with it for years to come,” Donahue said. “This is exactly why this funding is so important -- it will ensure that kids can go to school and not have to worry if they will eat that day or not. It will allow them to focus and engage in their schoolwork. Building this environment around our children is one of the best investments we can make in their future.”

To be eligible, schools must participate in the National School Lunch Program. FFVP prioritizes schools with the highest percentage of children eligible for free and reduced-price meals in order to give children from low-income families more opportunities to consume fresh produce on a regular basis.