Tuesday, June 28, 2011

“Growing Connections – Planting Seeds for Healthy Eating”

Piscataquis County - Now that summer is upon us, you may have noticed an increase in garden activity in your community. Thanks to a project “Growing Connections – Planting Seeds for Healthy Eating” sponsored through the Piscataquis Public Health Council (PPHC), you are seeing efforts of area schools, farmers and community groups.


Two area schools are working with PPHC under a SNAP-Ed Grant which funds programs that support nutrition education. Participating schools are the Morison Memorial School 4th grade in Corinth and the Milo Elementary 4th grade and SAD#41 in Milo. School projects are working on promoting more fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy eating behaviors and physical activity. Students have been involved in fun hands on learning activities using raised bed gardens during after school and summer programs. Teachers tell us the kids are having a lot of fun and hope to see the programs grow to reach more grade levels beyond the present 4th grades. Thank you, to the Milo and Corinth communities for their generous support in donations of garden materials.

SAD#41 sponsored a Nutrition & Activity Expo on June 4th which was open to the public. This was a fun morning of colorful interactive learning displays, taste testing, fruit/yogurt smoothies, walking, hoola hoop and wall climbing activities. It was full of fun things for students and parents alike. Another one is already being planned for March 2012.

This coming October, watch for FoodPlay nutrition theatre coming to a school in your community. Additional information will be available in the fall.

The PPHC SNAP-Ed Grant is funded by the USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP. The Supplemental Assistance Program (SNAP) provides nutrition assistance to people with low income. It can help you buy nutritious foods for a better diet. To find out more, contact your local town office or go online to www.fns.usda.gov/snap.

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