by Aisosa Udoh, SNAP Outreach Coordinator
As the last days of summer fade away and the whispers of autumn begin to emerge, it is that time of year again — back-to-school season. Beyond the flurry of buying new backpacks and fresh notebooks, the transition from vacation mode to school mode brings with it a renewed focus on routines and responsibilities. While the excitement of a new school year is palpable, it is essential not to overlook the crucial role that food resources play in ensuring our students start the year off right. In this blog post, we will delve into the intersection of food resources and back-to-school preparation, exploring how nourishment lays the foundation for success in the classroom.
Back-to-School Nutrition: Challenges and Solutions
While the excitement of the new school year is palpable, it also brings about unique challenges for families. The shift to early morning routines, packed schedules, and afterschool activities can make it difficult for parents and caregivers to prioritize nutritious meals. Additionally, some families may face financial constraints that impact their ability to provide well-rounded meals.
Thankfully, a variety of food resources are available to bridge this gap and ensure that students have access to nourishing meals throughout the school year.
Energizing Minds and Bodies: The Importance of Nutrition
As the gears shift from summer leisure to academic engagement, providing students with proper nutrition becomes paramount. The food children consume fuels not only their physical growth but also their cognitive development and concentration. A well-nourished student is better equipped to focus on class, retain information, and participate actively in learning activities according to The Department of Education (DOE).
With the demands of schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and social interactions, having access to nutritious meals is key to setting the stage for achievement. Some resources that can help with this are:
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) Application Assistance Hotline: Anyone can call this hotline at 1 (877) 760-0114 for help in completing an Oklahoma SNAP application. Hours are listed below:
- English and Spanish application assistance is available Monday-Friday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Hotline agents can currently assist with English, Spanish, and Zomi.
- The new Zomi hours are Wednesday-Friday 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- To learn more visit: HungerFreeOK.org/Groceries.
- OK Food Resources Menu: See this list of programs that are available to improve food security for Oklahomans.
- Sector-specific support for communities to fight hunger.
- You can order free outreach material by clicking here.
- View the on-demand School Meal Form Webinar by clicking here.
School Meals: A Backbone of Support
One of the most impactful resources available to students is the school meal program. From breakfast to lunch, schools provide students with balanced meals that cater to their nutritional needs. These meals provide essential nutrients and a sense of routine and stability in a bustling school day. For families facing financial challenges, free or reduced-price meals ensure that every student has access to food that fuels their learning journey.
Community Support and Beyond
Beyond the school cafeteria, various community programs and initiatives are dedicated to supporting families throughout the school year. Local food banks, afterschool meal programs, and collaborative community efforts all contribute to ensuring that no child goes hungry. Additionally, organizations often team up with schools to provide resources, workshops, and information on meal planning, stretching grocery budgets, and making nutritious choices.
Taking Action: Championing Back-to-School Nutrition
- Raising Awareness: Spread the word about available food resources to families in your community through school newsletters, community boards, and social media platforms. You can order free outreach material by clicking here.
- Volunteering: Get involved with local food banks, afterschool programs, or community organizations that focus on providing meals to students in need.
- Advocacy: Support policies and initiatives that prioritize student nutrition, ensuring that all children have access to nutritious meals.
As backpacks are filled with textbooks and classrooms buzz with anticipation, let us remember that proper nutrition is a vital tool for success in the classroom. The convergence of food resources and back-to-school season highlights the importance of collaboration between schools, communities, and families to ensure that every student has access to the fuel they need to thrive. By championing back-to-school nutrition, we pave the way for a brighter, healthier, and more successful academic journey for all students.
Join us in advocating for well-nourished students and a future brimming with potential. Together, we can make a difference that resonates far beyond the school walls. Hungry for Action will be back in person for the first time since 2019. As Oklahoma’s only statewide conference focused on hunger, our goal is to bring together diverse communities from across the state to learn and, most importantly, Take Action!
Be sure to use the Coupon Code “EARLY” to receive 20% off through August 31!