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Discovering Lesser-Known Fruits and Vegetables

Ephrata Area School District students in Grades 1-4 had the opportunity to sample lesser-known fruits and vegetables thanks to a grant worth more than $9,000 from the Highmark Foundation. On several days in October, November, and December, students were offered samples of fruits and vegetables, including pomegranates, mangoes, jicama (a type of turnip that originated in Mexico), and snow peas.

The Highmark Healthy High 5 School Challenge grant also provided instructional sessions for 2nd Grade students. Instructors from the Weller Health Education Center taught students about digestion, nutrition, ingredients, and the benefits of exercise. The lessons were tied to the Pennsylvania Academic Standards.

Since 2007, the Highmark Foundation has awarded more than $9 million to schools in 49 counties across Pennsylvania for programs that provide nutrition education, enhance nutrition choices, and increase opportunities for physical activity.