Power Snack visits Nodaway Valley CSD
posted on Thursday, November 8, 2018
“Our data shows that students who struggle with food score lower,” said Lanny Kliefoth, middle school principal Nodaway Valley CSD. “But I believe it also affects their self-esteem, behavior and ability to focus.”
To help students that struggle with food-insecurity, the elementary and middle schools in Nodaway Valley participate in a Backpack program that sends healthy food options home with students. But with Thanksgiving right around the corner, many students may still be wondering how or what they’re going to eat during the extended break.
“School-based food-assistance programs for children from low-income families greatly aid the learning process, but those same children may still suffer from food insecurity on weekends and holiday breaks,” said Allyson Ladd, communications specialist at Iowa Select Farms. “We encourage teachers to distribute our Power Snacks prior to those breaks to ensure no child ever has to go to bed hungry.”
Power Snack, a program of Iowa Select Farms and the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation, aims to reduce childhood hunger in Iowa by providing kids access to nutritious food at home. Four times throughout the school year children receive a $5 coupon for deli ham and $3 coupon for a loaf of whole wheat bread.
“The superhero theme of Power Snack™ is indicative of the larger purpose of the program – empower children in food insecure homes by teaching them how to get to the store, shop for nutritious food covered by the coupons and make their own snacks,” said Jen Sorenson, communications director of Iowa Select Farms. “Kids love it because it’s easy to prepare, full of flavor and a lean protein that promotes growth and development.”
Throughout November 6-19, Iowa Select Farms employees hand deliver Power Snacks to 127 schools statewide—enough to provide 23,267 children with 36 meals each.
“We are looking forward to making these coupons available to a select number of students,” said Lanny. “Being able to provide them with a quality meal, several quality meals, is really special. It’s really going to help them and their families out.”
250 students in the Nodaway Valley Community School District will receive Power Snack coupons—a contribution valued at $8,000.
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