Programs Jill Westfall News Today

Colorado lawmakers are considering ways to address a projected $24 million funding shortfall in the Healthy School Meals for All program, and grants to help districts purchase food from local farmers and ranchers could be at risk. Dan Sharp, nutrition services director for Mesa County School District 51, said serving fresh, locally-sourced foods -- as opposed to highly processed foods shipped cross-country -- gives kids the fuel they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond. "There...

Its been an uphill battle for childhood nutrition advocates to advance meal access policies in the South Dakota Legislature. However, organizers say thats not stopping conversations, along with community efforts. One of a handful of bills defeated this session called on South Dakota to enroll in the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program for Children. ...

People who receive emergency food services from New Mexico food banks and other charitable organizations will be among those at a strategic summit today in Albuquerque. Hunger has increased because of the pandemic, weather-related events and the increased cost of food. Dana Yost, president and CEO of New Mexico Roadrunner Food Bank, said summit attendees will contribute their experiences and solutions to Feeding Americas five-year action plan. ...

Food shelves across Minnesota continue to adapt to record demand, that isnt showing any immediate signs of slowing down. This month, Hunger Solutions released formal data showing there were more than 7.5 million visits to food selves in 2023. Thats 1.8 million more visits than what was recorded in 2022, also a record year. ...