Power Snack visits Mount Ayr CSD
posted on Tuesday, November 13, 2018
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“Approximately 50% of our students qualify for free or reduced meals,” said Stacey Andresen, RN and school nurse at Mount Ayr Community School. “If students are hungry, it’s harder for them to concentrate and learn.”
According to the Food Bank of Iowa, 1 in 7 children are food insecure. When a child’s basic nutrition needs are not met, they struggle in school.
“When hunger is not an issue it’s easier for students to learn and stay healthy,” continued Stacey. “But unfortunately, many of these kids do not have control over their situations.”
Thanks to Iowa Select Farms and the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation, at-risk children in Mount Ayr and other rural Iowa communities will be receiving Power Snack kits containing a $5 coupon for deli ham and a $3 coupon for a loaf of whole wheat bread—the ingredients needed to make their own “Power Snacks” at home.
“We don’t have any food-assistance programs for students in need so this program is really going to be a blessing for several families in our community,” said Stacey.
“As farmers and pork producers, we are passionate about assisting hunger-relief efforts in Iowa, particularly those directed towards children,” said Allyson Ladd of Iowa Select Farms. “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.”
“I’m just so glad that I’m able to help the students that need it most,” said Stacey. “Extended breaks, like Thanksgiving which is right around the corner, are hard on these kids. Knowing that they’ll have access to healthy, filling food is really comforting.”
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