WINTERSVILLE — Indian Creek elementary pupils will benefit from a $45,000 grant to improve nutrition.

Funding was received through the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, provided through the Department of Agriculture and administered through the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.

The program includes a curriculum with food and learning materials for pupils.

Two supplemental positions will be created in the buildings and funding available in October, according to Nicole Marshall, district food service director through Nutrition Inc.

“I’m super excited about our program,” Marshall said. “I’m excited for all it can do for Indian Creek and the kids.”

A cafeteria worker and teacher will be responsible for supplying the food and materials to the classrooms.

Students will enjoy reading and coloring, while learning the importance of eating fresh fruit and vegetables.

“It’s a program for school-aged kids,” she continued. “We’re focusing on preschool to fourth-grade classes. They’ll receive a snack and have a curriculum taught by the teacher.”

The one-year is something Marshall hopes to apply for annually, with the possibility of expanding the services.

“We’re going to pilot it and see if we can incorporate it into the fifth and sixth grades,” she noted.

The nationwide program provides free fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the school day and is an effective, creative way to introduce healthy snacks to children.

Applicants must be at an elementary school, represent the highest percentage of students certified for free or reduced-price meals, participate in the National School Lunch Program and complete an annual application for FFVP. Applicants must have operated the NLSP for at least one full school year.