The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has recently honored seven North Carolina organizations for their exemplary contributions to summer nutrition programs, designed to combat food insecurity among children during the break from school. Among the recipients of the Turnip the Beet Awards for the 2024 Summer Nutrition Programs, included are the Boys and Girls Club of Wake County and Halifax County Schools, both garnishing gold recognition for their efforts.
Not to be outdone, silver awards were promptly scooped up by Catawba County Schools, the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, and the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina. The Turnip the Beet Awards, an annual recognition, are aimed to directly incentivize sponsors to not only serve but also to create meals that are nutritious, appetizing, and appealing to children, specifically during summer months when school meals are not available to help ensure kids return to school ready to effectively learn.
Two additional sponsors, Beaufort County Schools and Elizabeth-City Pasquotank Public Schools, were also decorated with bronze awards, highlighting the diversity of organizations actively involved in the movement towards healthier, locally sourced summer meals. According to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s announcement, these awards are a testament to the invaluable services provided by these organizations which also serve in a myriad of other programs such as the School Breakfast Program and After School Snack Program.
Summer nutrition is a critical intersection where youth well-being, education, and public health converge. The awarded sponsors have distinguished themselves by seeking to wholly embrace this reality, often incorporating fresh, locally grown foods into their meal plans, and engaging students in enriching educational activities. The SUN Meal Programs, and other similar initiatives, contribute significantly to the reduction of the gap in food security that tends to widen during the non-school months.
Engagement in these programs is not only about feeding the hungry but it’s about nourishing the future. For more details on the awardees and programs, interested parties can navigate to the USDA website or explore the extensive resources provided by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s Office of School Nutrition.