Now that it is being reimbursed for the meals served to the children age 12 and under, it can use its program dollars to pay for materials and salaries, and to improve services. The nutritional guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture reinforce the shelter staff's message that children need to eat healthy food, such as fruits, vegetables, and milk. Even though a cook prepares the food, the mothers are involved in the process and are learning about nutrition and teaching their children since they prepare their children's plates. The Building Blocks newsletter is now available via e-mail. The goal of the list-serve is to increase the number and quality of afterschool programs serving meals and snacks with federal child nutrition funds.
Participants can then respond via email with insights and suggestions or identify related problems.
When joining the list-serve, be sure to include your name and contact information.