K-12 Counselor at Riceville Community School District Students Will Receive Power Snack Coupons
posted on Monday, November 18, 2019
“Being nourished is a basic need,” said Michelle Dohlman, K-12 Counselor at Riceville Community School District. “When a basic need isn’t met, it’s difficult to complete a task, learn or do anything. Well-fed and nourished students can have the opportunity to learn and do well in school.”
Food insecurity is a common problem among students grades K-12. In fact, according to the Food Bank of Iowa, 1 in 5 children are considered food insecure, meaning they do not have enough to eat.
“Our students truly benefit and rely on programs like Power Snack,” continued Michelle. “When a student’s tummy is grumbling, they want something to eat. Although they might try to focus on their schoolwork, their hunger is a big distraction.”
A program of Iowa Select Farms and the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation, Power Snack provides children with $5 coupons for deli ham and $3 coupons for a loaf of whole wheat bread.
The coupons are distributed four times throughout the school year, typically before extended breaks when students don’t have access to school breakfast and lunch programs.
New this year, Power Snack deliveries also include pork snack sticks.
“We are excited about the addition of Pork Sticks because they’ll serve as an immediate, nutritious resource for kids,” said Jen Sorenson, Communications Director of Iowa Select Farms. “They pack a powerful protein punch and can help students curb hunger and focus on learning.”
With the help of school nurses, teachers, counselors and principals, Power Snack coupons and pork sticks are discretely distributed to students in need.
“What excites me most about this program is the opportunity for families to have healthy, wholesome food to eat,” said Michelle. “Protein is important in the diets of young, developing students because it builds strength and maintains health.”
152 students within the Riceville Community School District will receive Power Snack—a contribution valued at $4,864.
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