$5.8 million to improve health of America's children

by S. C.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack awarded approximately $5.8 million in Team Nutrition Training Grants to 18 states to help children develop good nutrition and physical activity habits for healthier lifestyles. This funding provides schools with nutrition education materials for children and parents as well as technical assistance for communities and school food service providers.

"Improving the overall health and well-being of America's children is a top priority of the Obama Administration as we work to confront the obesity epidemic that affects too many of our children," said Tom Vilsack. "We must continue encouraging children to eat healthy and to engage in daily physical activity to help them stay healthy and strong and reduce their risks for obesity."

Team Nutrition is a key component in the efforts of USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to enhance children's lifelong eating and physical activity behaviors by incorporating the principles of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and MyPyramid.

States will provide training and technical assistance to food service staff in preparing more fruits and vegetables, whole-grain products, and other healthier foods during the two-year grant period. The grants also support efforts to help schools reach out to parents, teachers, caregivers, and others to capitalize on the positive role-model potential they have for children.

In addition to Team Nutrition, FNS encourages elementary schools to take the HealthierUS School Challenge, promotes the use of USDA Foods, and provides schools with technical assistance to create and maintain healthier school environments and to implement their wellness policies.