HISD launches USDA-funded fruit program for 40,000 elementary students

HISD Nutrition Services has initiated another year of the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP), funded by the USDA. The program aims to provide free fresh produce snacks and in-class nutrition lessons to elementary school students twice a week. This initiative seeks to introduce new fruits and vegetables to students, helping them build healthy eating habits.

This year, 93 HISD elementary schools and approximately 40,000 students are participating in the FFVP. Representatives from HISD Nutrition Services, including registered dietitians Nathan Raska and Gabriela Villarreal, along with chef Brittany Jones, visit campuses to deliver nutrition lessons and conduct chef demonstrations.

Braeburn Elementary third grader Jose Lopez commented on the program: “It makes your body healthier, and sometimes the fruits are tasty,” as his class enjoyed fresh strawberries.

The FFVP also includes Lunch and Learn opportunities where staff educate students on different ways to enjoy new fruits and vegetables available in the cafeteria lunch line. Braeburn principal Hollie Zamora emphasized its importance: “It’s important that students have the opportunity to experience fresh fruits and vegetables so that they can see the benefits of the foods that they eat.”

Nutrition Services provides activity sheets full of fun facts, games, and recipes for students to try at home with their families. Kathryn Laurance, ND, Nutrition Services Lead CTM and licensed Naturopathic Physician said: “We hope that they can enjoy a lifelong love of fruits and vegetables.”

The FFVP's impact is evident with an increasing number of participating campuses each year. For more information or to download activity sheets, visit the Nutrition Services FFVP webpage.