Today is National Summer Learning Day and Operation Food Search (OFS) is playing a vital role in continuing and nourishing the academic growth of students throughout the summer. We are excited to highlight two programs that are in full swing: Summer Meals and Cooking Matters for Kids. These unique programs focus on helping kids hit their “Summer Stride.”
OFS has partnered with PepsiCo Food for Good during the summer to reach a maximum number of students and provide them with a nutritious meal at no-cost. We are over half of the way to our 100,000 meals goal for the Summer. Designed to complement The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), funded by the USDA, the Food and Fun Club provides a daily dose of nutrition, along with a variety of games, arts, crafts, and STEM projects. The healthy meals fuel growing bodies while the engaging activities enrich curious minds. The International Literacy Association (ILA) provides books to participants at our service locations. They keep the books in order to continue their reading at home. Thousands of books have been donated and distributed at our Summer Meal locations since the program implemented this facet in 2017.
Another way to engage students during the summer months is through the “Cooking Matters for Kids” program funded by ARCHS. This program has been in full swing throughout the region teaching students nutritional guidelines and culinary skills. The Operation Food Search Child Nutrition team teaches multiple classes a week with a graduation upon completion. The students have opportunities to excel in different areas of culinary arts, from learning knife safety to cooking vegetables and the proper methods of preparing produce. Also, the students get to learn about “My Plate” dietary guidelines and are tested throughout the weeks to help retain the information.
