The United Fresh Start Foundation is launching a new Community Grants Program to help advance the organisation’s mission to increase children’s access to fresh fruit and vegetables.
The new initiative will provide US$25,000 in grants to local community organisations and groups that share the United Fresh Start Foundation’s commitment to increasing kids’ access to fresh produce, ensuring they develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime.
This effort extends the foundation’s work beyond the school day and will provide children with fresh fruit and vegetables afterschool, on weekends, and during summer breaks.
“Food insecurity and obesity are major challenges for millions of children across the country,” says United Fresh President and CEO Tom Stenzel. “We are proud of the work we have done in schools to increase fresh fruits and vegetables, but we know that many children need access when school is out. The programme is designed to ensure kids have access throughout the day and the year.”
During this week’s Produce Legends Dinner in New Orleans, the foundation announced the plans to launch the Community Grants Program. The Foundation is committing US$25,000 to the 2017 Community Grants Program. Grants will be available in various amounts up to US$2,500. Applications will be accepted this spring and the recipients will be announced during the United Fresh Show this June in Chicago.
