Philadelphia House Delegation praises more than $1.5 million in grant funding for schools across Philadelphia

A total of 57 schools were awarded funds to provide fresh produce to students

Philadelphia House Delegation    August 15, 2023 | 3:08 PM

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 15 – Members of the Philadelphia House Delegation today expressed their satisfaction after the Shapiro administration announced that $1.5 million in federal grant funding has been awarded to 57 school across Philadelphia.

The funds, awarded under the federal Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, will promote nutrition education and healthier school environments by helping schools to secure fresh produce for students.

Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas explained that the group is satisfied to see these grants coming to schools because nutrition and education go hand in hand.

“As we know, nutrition has a great impact on a child’s learning ability. We need further nutrition education in our schools because not all children get this guidance or necessary intake of healthy food at home”, Cephas explained.

“This grant is a perfect complement to the Free School Breakfast Program victory championed by Governor Josh Shapiro in the 2023-2024 budget,” Cephas added.

“The spending plan includes a $46.5 million increase in funding to provide universal free breakfast to every public-school student and free lunch to students who are eligible for reduced-price lunches through the National School Lunch Program.

“This puts our schools in a remarkable path,” she said.