Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program
Madrasatu Ahlis Sunnah will participate in the Fresh Fruit & Vegetable program, a USDA-funded initiative under the National School Lunch Act that provides free fresh fruit and vegetable snacks to our elementary students.
What is the FFVP?
The Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program (FFVP) is a USDA-funded initiative under the National School Lunch Act that provides free fresh fruit and vegetable snacks to children in participating elementary schools. The program serves snacks at least two days a week during the school day and is often complemented by nutrition and food education lessons, activities, or discussions. The FFVP is an effective and creative way to introduce fresh produce as healthy snack options.
What are the goals of the FFVP?
- Increase children’s consumption of fruits and vegetables.
- Create healthier school environments.
- Promote wellness initiatives.
- Encourage nutritious food choices to positively impact future health.
- Inform and influence broader school menu planning.
How does the FFVP make a difference?
- Assist in lessening hunger during the school day
- Improves focus, executive function, and mood state.
- Expands students’ food experience.
- Influence students’ current and future dietary choices.
Twice a Week
Students enjoy fresh fruit and vegetable tastings every Monday and Wednesday, adding a healthy boost to the school week.
For Grades 1–6
The program is open to 1st through 6th-grade classes, encouraging healthy eating habits during their most formative years.
Two Recipes per Week
Each week features two fun and easy recipes inspired by the fruits or vegetables of the day — simple, tasty, and nutritious!
Taste & Take Home
Students will sample each recipe at school and share their feedback. Every child can take the recipes home to try again with their families.
Dear Parents, Families, and Caregivers
As a participating school in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP), your child will receive a healthy fruit or vegetable snack during class time at least twice a week. Additionally, we will occasionally send home information and recipes to encourage your family to increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. Your involvement plays a key role in promoting healthy eating habits!
What can you do at home?
- Ask children about the fruits and vegetables they are trying and learning about at school
- Expand children’s fruit and vegetable experience by encouraging produce at mealtimes and for snacks
- Allow children to pick out produce at the grocery store.
- Include children in preparing snacks for themselves and siblings
- Visit a local farmstand or farm market
- Be enthusiastic, encouraging, and most of all, interested!
For More information:
NJDA FFVP Coordinator:
NJDA Website:
FFVP Links and Resources
www.nj.gov/agriculture/applic/forms/
NJ Farm to School Website
www.nj.gov/agriculture/farmtoschool/
USDA FFVP Information
www.fns.usda.gov/ffvp/fresh-fruit-and-vegetables-program