Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Subgrant Program

The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Subgrant Program is administered by the South Carolina Department of Education through its Office of Health and Nutrition, with federal funding authorized under Section 19 of the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act and allocated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The program is designed to support elementary schools in providing free fresh fruits and vegetables to students during the school day outside of standard meal periods. The initiative reflects a broader federal and state effort to improve child nutrition, promote healthy eating habits, and reduce disparities in access to nutritious foods among school-aged children. The primary purpose of the program is to introduce students to a variety of fresh produce and encourage increased consumption of fruits and vegetables. Participating schools are expected to create healthier school environments by expanding the range of healthy snack options available, increasing student exposure to different types of produce, and fostering long-term dietary improvements. The program also emphasizes collaboration, encouraging schools to build partnerships with local and state organizations to support program implementation and sustainability. Funding for the program is distributed based on a per-student allocation model, with selected schools receiving approximately 50 dollars per enrolled student. Total funding available for the funding cycle is approximately 3.5 million dollars. Funds must be used primarily for the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables that are made available to students at no cost. Administrative expenses are limited to no more than 10 percent of the total award and may include costs related to planning, coordination, and equipment. All expenditures must be allowable, documented, and compliant with federal cost principles and reporting requirements. Eligibility is limited to elementary schools, including public, charter, private, parochial schools, and residential childcare centers that meet specific criteria. Schools must participate in the National School Lunch Program and demonstrate that at least 50 percent of their students qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Priority is given to schools with the highest percentages of low-income students. New applicants such as private or residential institutions may be subject to a pre-award site visit to ensure readiness. All applicants must also maintain a valid Unique Entity Identifier through the federal System for Award Management. The application process requires submission through the South Carolina Automated Payment System. Applicants must complete both a main application and individual school-level program site applications. Required components include a signed Certification Signature Page for each participating school, responses to a series of narrative questions describing program implementation, and verification of eligibility and enrollment data. Applications must be submitted by July 17, 2026, and incomplete submissions will not be considered. A technical assistance webinar is scheduled prior to the deadline to support applicants. Applications are evaluated based on eligibility criteria and prioritization factors outlined in federal and state guidance, including the proportion of low-income students and the school’s readiness to implement the program effectively. Selected schools are required to manage funds on a reimbursement basis, maintain detailed financial records, and submit periodic reports. Reporting requirements include a semi-annual report due January 31, 2027, and a final report due August 15, 2027, documenting program activities, outcomes, and challenges. The project period runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. During this time, participating schools must ensure consistent program delivery, monitor expenditures, and comply with all applicable federal and state regulations. The program is offered on an annual basis, with future funding cycles anticipated. Applicants are encouraged to prepare early, coordinate internally, and ensure compliance with all submission requirements to increase the likelihood of successful participation.

Start early secure all required signatures in advance ensure enrollment data accuracy attend technical assistance session and prepare narrative responses offline before submission