Nutrition occurs not in a vacuum but in the context of other child development programs. Taking full advantage of child nutrition programs will assure that millions more children are ready to learn and fluorish. These are all names for approaches to delivering comprehensive services to children and youth. The meals, resources and dollars that accompany federal nutrition programs can serve as building blocks to meet many child development needs beyond nutrition, such as education, health and security. Program goals may vary, but the snack or meal served provides children with the energy to participate in activities and acts as a magnet to draw children into the program.
Many more communities have the potential to develop such programs.
Building Blocks is FRAC's program to assist these communities to gain access to nutrition program resources and overcome barriers they may encounter. School-based child nutrition programs offer important resources and opportunities to meet both the nutritional and educational needs of our students. This occasional newsletter will be an open communication vehicle between FRAC and individuals and groups interested in this effort to use nutrition resources to meet the educational and developmental needs of children. We will be profiling models, happenings of note, resources, and other information that may interest institutions serving children. We look forward to your feedback and input into this effort.