| Helping to develop lifelong healthful eating habits |
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By: TMP - July 14, 2008
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Posted: Monday, July 14, 2008 3:07 pm
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Traditionally apples have been given to teachers by students, but now Hobgood students will be treated to fresh fruits and veggies next year as part of a USDA program that encourages healthy eating habits.
Hobgood Elementary has been selected as one of 25 recipients to participate in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program through the Division of Resources and Support Services School Nutrition Program for the Tennessee State Department of Education. The grant is for the period of July 1, 2008 to Sept. 30, 2009.
“We know that healthy children learn better and this program provides the healthiest choices for every child who attends Hobgood Elementary,” said Marilyn Mathis, Director of Murfreesboro City Schools. “Additionally, we look forward to working with the State Department of Education School Nutrition Program in developing ways to help students develop lifelong healthful eating habits.”
The funding is anticipated to provide $38 per enrolled student and is to be used primarily to purchase, prepare, and distribute fresh and dried fruits and vegetables at no charge to all students in the school. The program is structured so that maximum benefits go to the children.
The 2002 farm bill created the program to provide free fresh fruit and vegetable snacks to students in participating schools.
Separate and distinct from the schools’ existing meals programs, the snack program is intended to increase children’s fruit and vegetable consumption for their better health.
Implemented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service, the $6 million pilot program provided grants to 25 schools in each of six states and one Native American territory. The schools used the funds to purchase the school’s choice of snacks.
An April 2003 USDA evaluation report noted that the program was highly popular with students and administrators alike – and that students were performing better at school, and eating more fruits and vegetables at home as a result.
In 2004, Congress made the program permanent, and expanded it to eight states – including Tennessee – and three Native American territories.
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