Representatives from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture honored Lord Stirling Community School in New Brunswick with the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program VIP Award. The award was presented during a school assembly, recognizing the school's efforts in promoting healthy eating habits among students.
The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) is a federally funded initiative that provides grants to schools where 50 percent or more of students receive free or reduced-price meals. The program aims to offer fresh produce as snacks to students, encouraging healthier dietary habits. Currently, 188 schools in New Jersey are participating in the 2024-2025 school year’s FFVP.
NJDA Secretary of Agriculture Ed Wengryn commented on the significance of such programs: “When schools like Lord Stirling use the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program as part of a comprehensive educational program, it changes how students and their families think about food.” He praised the school for its extensive program that integrates wellness activities across the entire community.
Dr. Aubrey Johnson, Superintendent of New Brunswick Public Schools, expressed his satisfaction with the program's impact: “Studies have shown that healthy eating is associated with better grades, improved memory and alertness, and quicker information processing,” he said. Dr. Johnson noted that this motivated Lord Stirling Community School to join NJDA’s Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Program.
Principal Kevin Jarido highlighted the benefits derived from participation: “We were motivated to become involved in this New Jersey Department of Agriculture program because of the benefits our students derive from eating a healthy diet.” He emphasized how much students, faculty, and staff have learned through their involvement.
Lord Stirling serves FFVP items two or three days a week and actively participates in various related initiatives such as Farm to School Week. These activities include learning about farmers markets and trying locally grown snacks.
Dr. Patty Bennett from USDA Food and Nutrition Service commended Lord Stirling Community School for winning this year’s NJDA Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program Very Impressive Produce award: “Providing fresh fruits and vegetables helps to keep students healthy while also providing an opportunity to teach them about health.”
The USDA has allocated over $5 million for New Jersey's FFVP this school year, benefiting approximately 96,500 students across 49 districts within 14 counties.
