Set Up Your Program

Step 5:

Keep the Communication Flowing

You are well on your way to establishing your program. It is a good time to update your school community on the description of your new student nutrition program. A sample letter is included in Appendix H which describes the program, indicates the cost per child, the time of day the program will occur and an information form.

It is a good idea to keep parents and volunteers informed at School Council meetings, parent and teacher night displays and newsletters.

Students can be informed and included by:

• Having senior students help the younger students with their breakfast, snack or lunch
• Having poster and display contests for students
• Planning menus
• Having a contest to name the program in your school
• Inviting students to experience foods from other cultures

Let parents/guardians, suppliers, local community groups, media and other advocacy organizations know how well your nutrition program is run and the benefits realized by the children. This will be very helpful when recruiting volunteers and seeking community contributions.