Falls City Public Schools is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $5,000 "Working Here Fund Grant" from Farm Credit Services of America to enhance its participation in the USDA's Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) for the 2024-2025 school year. This generous grant will enable the district to provide an additional day of healthy fruit and vegetable snacks each week for students in grades PreK-5.
The FFVP promotes healthy eating habits among young students by providing fresh fruit and vegetables as nutritious snack options throughout the school day. With the support of the Farm Credit Services of America "Working Here Fund Grant," Falls City Public Schools will now be able to offer these healthy snacks more frequently, encouraging students to develop a preference for fruits and vegetables at an early age.
Superintendent Tim Heckenlively expressed gratitude for the grant, saying, "We are extremely thankful to Farm Credit Services of America for their support. This grant will help us extend the positive impact of the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program by giving our students access to additional servings of fresh produce each week. It's a valuable step towards improving student health and well-being."
The "Working Here Fund Grant" program, supported by Farm Credit Services of America, provides financial assistance to initiatives that enhance rural communities and schools. By contributing to educational programs like FFVP, Farm Credit Services of America continues to demonstrate its commitment to building healthier futures for children across rural America.
The expanded fruit and vegetable snack program began in September of the 2024-2025 school year, with students enjoying the benefits of fresh, healthy snacks in addition to their regular school meals.
Pictured from left front: Jordan Lunsford, Gabe Goff, Radley Crawford, Lauren Ramer, Logan Shy, and Cayden Goff. Back row from left: April McHenry, David Moss, Brandon Gibson, Mara Dungan and Cassondra Goff.