News Release

Contact: Thomas Algarin, Director, Communication & Information
talgarin@marietta-city.k12.ga.us
770-422-3500 ext. 282

Release August 7, 2009

LOCKHEED AND PARK STREET ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
AWARDED USDA FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE GRANTS
One-year grants valued at over $80,000, amounts vary per school

Marietta, GA - Marietta City Schools (MCS) today announced the receipt of two one-year grants, of only 53 awarded statewide, from the U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP). The FFVP grants to Lockheed and Park Street Elementary are valued at over $80,000.

“These grants are part of the USDA Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 (Farm Bill). Lockheed Elementary will receive $46,502 and Park Street Elementary will receive $33,540 from the grant,” said Sandy Laffan, MCS Director of School Nutrition. “The FFVP grant allocations are based on student enrollment at qualifying schools.

Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program grants allow school systems to provide low income students with fresh domestic fruits and vegetables each day other than at a meal (breakfast or lunch), and teaches children there are alternate snack choices to high fat, sugar or salt snacks.

“These FFVP grants enhance our ability to offer students a nutritious snack during the school day to help them stay focused on learning,” added Laffan. “They also reinforce our district’s wellness program by teaching children about the importance of consuming fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy diet.”

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