FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Students in 47 Indiana schools are getting healthy snacks as part of a federal program to promote good nutrition.

The Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program provides elementary schools with fresh produce during the school day to encourage healthy eating habits. At least half the students in a school must be eligible for a free or reduced-price lunch, a leading indicator of poverty, to qualify for the program.

Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Bennett says fixing bad eating habits early can have a positive effect on children’s health in the long-term.

“It is important to teach children at an early age that a well-balanced diet is important,” Bennett said in a statement.

Eight schools in the Fort Wayne Community Schools district participate in the program. Teachers say it helps students learn their manners and gives them energy to make it to lunch.

Students at Scott Academy, one of the participants, say the snacks help them concentrate.

“It gives me more energy to do my work and think,” said Nadea Gonzalez, 10.