The Issue:

It’s becoming more evident that when students sit down to eat the food served by their school cafeteria, they join a growing crisis in our country.  A study coming from the University of Michigan has reported that over 50% of children’s meals get processed before they are served, meaning that more often than not fruits and vegetables are not on the menu.  Such unhealthy options are putting 29% of school children on the path to obesity, reports the NY Times, and the percentage is only increasing.

 

The Solution:

It’s time for students to take charge of the situation!  Our foundation is working to bring more gardens schools so fruits and vegetables can be served at a reduced cost.  To raise awareness about the poor quality of our food, we are encouraging students to help us celebrate BRING YOUR LUNCH TO SCHOOL WEEK (September 9 – September 13).  By bringing healthier foods on our own, we can show our schools what makes us smile most in the cafeteria.

 

Sources:

University of Michigan – http://closup.umich.edu/publications/misc/Community-Based-Sustainable-Food-Systems.pdf

NY Times – http://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/08/health/research/08childhood.html?_r=0

Cover Photo – http://presidentialfellows.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/school_lunch.jpg