We were pleased that there was so much interest in our Afterschool Meals CACFP (Children and Adult Care Food Programs) Webinar held last week. Food service directors from across the country tuned in to hear tips on how to implement a successful Afterschool Meal program. I especially want to thank our featured speakers: Alexandra Molina, M.S., Director, McAllen ISD in Texas, and Sandra Kemp, Executive Director of Food and Nutrition at Albuquerque Public Schools in New Mexico.
It’s been said that the worst of times can bring out the best in people, and I’m sure you’ll agree that the school foodservice community has risen to the occasion by finding creative and innovative ways to feed children during this pandemic. Every day we are reading about ways school districts have gone above and beyond to get meals to kids, even when they are at home for remote learning. At E S Foods, we have been fortunate to do our small part in this effort by providing shelf-stable, grab & go meals
Now more than ever there is a critical need to provide afterschool suppers to children. With the pandemic resulting in remote learning or reduced in-person instruction, many kids aren’t accessing their regular free school meals. Add to that the other restrictions stemming from the pandemic, such as families not being able to work and pay bills, the Afterschool Meal Program can be a much-needed respite for families. Did you know that by adding suppers/super snacks to your program you can help countless families and increase your reimbursement dollars by as much as 58%?
Two key school nutrition bills have been introduced and I encourage you to help raise awareness and support! Safe and consistent student access to school meals this fall continues to be threatened by unprecedented challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. TAKE ACTION now on SNA’s Action Network!