The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) ensures that children have access to nutritious meals, even when school is not in session. Some school districts across Minnesota are partnering with local farmers this summer to take advantage of the growing season and incorporate locally grown fruits and vegetables into summer meals. During Minnesota's Farm to Summer Week July 15-19, students at Nay Ah Shing Schools will celebrate local foods and community with a Nature Walk and a Cucumber Crunch.
WHAT: A Nature Walk with indigenous plant expert Linda Black Elk and the Cucumber Crunch, celebrating Minnesota-grown produce during Farm to Summer Week
WHEN: Nature Walk—Tuesday, July 16, 9:30 am - 10:30 am; Cucumber Crunch—Wednesday, July 17, 11 am - 12 pm
WHERE: Nay Ah Shing High School, 43651 Oodena Drive, Onamia, MN
WHO: Mille Lacs children and families who are participating in the Summer Food Service Program, Linda Black Elk, SNAP-Ed and the Statewide Health Improvement Partnership.
WHY: Feeding local foods benefits children, farmers and communities. It ensures children have access to healthy, free foods when school is not in session, provides farmers with a market during the growing season and helps build engagement between growers, eaters and families. The Nature Walk connects children with indigenous vegetation and deepens their understanding of culturally significant, edible plants. The Cucumber Crunch shows support for Farm to Summer and helps boost SFSP participation by increasing the quality of meals and engaging children in fun, educational programming.