If you want kids to learn about good nutrition, hitting the books does not do the trick. They learn more when they get a chance to shop for fresh, good food and eat it.
Choptank Community Health is launching a “produce prescription” program that includes vouchers students can use to buy $20 worth of fresh fruits and vegetables at local farmer’s markets and produce stands.
Based in Denton, in Maryland’s Eastern Shore area, the health center is teaming up with schools and farmers to get nutrition information and practical experience to about 1,000 students between May and November.
Local schools sat empty for a time due to COVID-19. About half of the 10,000 local students are eligible for lunch programs, so the switch to virtual classes had unanticipated impacts, said Chrissy Bartz, Choptank’s Director of Community Based Programs.
“We didn’t really have an understanding of the level of food insecurity in this area until kids couldn’t come to school,” she said.
Choptank runs school-based health centers in several local counties. Staff worked with the school system and community non-profit groups to set up the produce prescription program. Students will be able to use their vouchers at food stands and at a mobile unit that will make stops in various neighborhoods.
Health center staff hope the program’s focus on local food insecurity will spark greater awareness of the issue. Meanwhile, the “produce prescriptions" will be accompanied by health education on topics such as the importance of a healthy diet and physical activity.