Some Idaho elementary schools can apply for federal funds to offer students fruit and vegetables throughout the school day, the Idaho Department of Education (IDE) announced Thursday. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program this year will give states $231.5 million to improve nutrition for students with limited access to fruit and vegetables.

IDE’s Child Nutrition Programs team is administering Idaho’s share of nearly $3 million. 

The grants are limited to elementary schools (grades one through six) that participate in the National School Lunch Program and have more than 40% of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. 

Successful applicants will be awarded between $50 and $75 per student to make fresh fruit and vegetables available at no cost to students, an IDE news release said. 

“In the past, some schools have used funds to provide students with both staple options as well as more exotic foods that they may not normally have the opportunity to try,” the release said. 

Grant applications are due May 21. For more information, click here.