The California Department of Education (CDE) Nutrition Services Division (NSD) is now accepting applications for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) grant for School Year (SY) 2026–27. Applications are due Friday, February 6, 2026, at 4 p.m. Pacific Time.
Overview of Grant
The FFVP provides free, fresh fruit or vegetable snacks to elementary school students, during the school day, outside of the School Breakfast and National School Lunch (NSLP) Programs. The goals are to introduce children to new and different varieties of fresh fruits and vegetables and increase overall acceptance and consumption of fresh, unprocessed produce. The FFVP also encourages healthier school environments by promoting nutrition education.
FFVP Grant Application and Instructions
To be considered for an FFVP grant, new applicants and current 2025–26 FFVP grantees must complete and submit the online Request for Application.
- FFVP application web page
- Informational video: FFVP: How to Apply, Course Number 460 web page
- FFVP application instructions web page
FFVP Grant Period: July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027
FFVP Eligible Agencies
The FFVP grant is intended to support the highest-need elementary schools. The U.S. Department of Agriculture criteria require that schools must have at least 50 percent of their student population eligible for free and reduced-price meals (F/RP). Over the past nine years, the highest-need California schools typically had at least 86 percent of students eligible for F/RP meals. Schools that are eligible for the grant include:
- School districts and county offices of education for elementary schools
- Direct-funded charter elementary schools
- Private elementary schools participating in the NSLP with at least 50% F/RP eligibility
- Residential child care institutions operating elementary schools and participating in the NSLP
In compliance with federal law, schools are selected based on application criteria and F/RP eligibility, with priority given to those with the highest F/RP percentages.
For more information about the FFVP and grant eligibility requirements, visit the CDE FFVP web page.
FFVP Application Deadline: Friday, February 6, 2026, at 4 p.m.
All applications received after 4 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, will be ineligible for funding.
- Only online applications are accepted
- No mailed, emailed, scanned, faxed, or hard copy applications will be accepted
- No late applications will be accepted
- No partial submissions will be accepted
More Information
For more information about the FFVP, visit the CDE FFVP web page.
Contact Information
For questions regarding the FFVP, contact the CDE FFVP Team by email at FFVP@cde.ca.gov.