Vermont’s congressional delegation is welcoming news from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that the state will get nearly $1.8 million to provide free fruit and vegetables to schoolchildren.
Started in 2002 as a pilot program, the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program will be expanded in Vermont, providing the money to the state Department of Education and ensuring that qualifying schools receive between $50 and $75 worth of fresh produce.
U.S. Sens. Bernie Sanders and Patrick Leahy and Congressman Peter Welch said Wednesday the program is a perfect fit for Vermont, and that it also supports family farms.