The New Jersey Department of Agriculture, along with representatives from the USDA, has awarded Sonia Sotomayor School No. 21 in Passaic Public Schools the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program VIP Award. This award recognizes schools participating in the USDA's Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) that excel in promoting healthy eating habits among students.
NJDA Assistant Secretary of Agriculture Joe Atchison III stated, “The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program provides an opportunity for schools to encourage healthy eating habits.” He congratulated the staff and students at Sonia Sotomayor School No. 21 for their outstanding program.
The FFVP is a federally funded initiative that grants schools funds to provide fresh produce as snacks, targeting institutions where over half of the students receive free or reduced-price meals. For the 2023-2024 school year, a record 222 New Jersey schools are participating.
Sonia Sotomayor Principal Tiffany Crockett expressed the school's mission: “Educating students and families on how to build healthy habits is our mission.” She emphasized their goal to influence students and families positively towards a healthier lifestyle.
Assistant Secretary Atchison presented a trophy to the school, acknowledging their efforts. Throughout the year, students have enjoyed Jersey Fresh produce as part of their FFVP snacks, including seasonal fruits and vegetables like peaches, apples, tomatoes, green leaf lettuce, green peppers, and spinach.
The school's FFVP also includes activities such as student government-led food drives, sharing program information with teachers and parents through digital platforms, school garden projects, discussions with district food services about menu changes, and offering nutrition classes sponsored by Rutgers University.
Dr. Patty Bennett from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service praised the school: “Congratulations to the students and staff of Sonia Sotomayor School No. 21 for winning this year’s NJDA Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program VIP award.” She highlighted the program's role in creating healthier school environments by expanding fruit and vegetable options for students.
