Power Snack visits Clearfield-Diagonal CSD
posted on Tuesday, November 13, 2018
“This program isn’t beneficial for just students in need, but their entire family,” said Danielle Newton, Nutrition Director at Diagonal Community Schools. “The coupons provide access to healthy foods that families might not otherwise be able to afford.”
Danielle is referring to Power Snack coupons for ham and whole wheat bread. A program of Iowa Select Farms and the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation, Power Snack aims to reduce childhood hunger by providing access to nutritious foods.
“We are spending nearly two weeks traveling the state to deliver $5 ham and $3 whole wheat bread coupons for at-risk students,” explained Allyson Ladd, communications specialist at Iowa Select Farms. “The goal is to empower children by teaching them how to get to the store, shop for nutritious food covered by the coupons and prepare their own meals at home.”
The USDA MyPlate guidelines recommend children eat up to six ounces of lean protein daily, depending on age and gender. And according to the National Pork Board, ham is an excellent source of important nutrients like zinc, potassium and protein, among many others.
“Kids love ham,” explained Sorenson. “It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor and promotes growth and development. Combining the energy and carbohydrates of whole wheat bread with the protein of ham means the children will have made themselves a real Power Snack.”
150 students within the Diagonal School District will be receiving Power Snack coupons four times throughout the school year—a contribution valued at $4,800 and enough supplies to make 5,400 ham sandwiches.
“When students have full bellies they are able to focus on learning,” said Danielle. “The lack of food provided to our children at home can affect their learning and development. These coupons can be the difference in them eating a meal or going without. They’re truly a wonderful gift.”
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