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CDP explains Head Start menu changes

Posted 10/27/11

To the Editor: This is a letter in response to a Sound Off printed in the Oct. 5, 2011 edition of North Country Now regarding menu changes at Head Start. St. Lawrence County Head Start Program prides …

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CDP explains Head Start menu changes

Posted

To the Editor:

This is a letter in response to a Sound Off printed in the Oct. 5, 2011 edition of North Country Now regarding menu changes at Head Start.

St. Lawrence County Head Start Program prides itself in providing healthy food and nutrition education for the children and families in our program. There is a strong relationship between nutrition and health. Research shows that children who eat well learn better, feel better, test better and behave better. Additionally, due to the obesity epidemic sweeping our nation (including St. Lawrence County), we strive to serve foods that are low in fat, salt, sugar and are not highly processed.

Head Start must abide by the rules and regulations of USDA and New York State Department of Health’s Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) for menu planning and food choices in order to receive reimbursement funding for these meals. Menus are reviewed and approved by a registered dietitian (RD) as required by the National Head Start Performance Standards. Food provided by the schools under the National School Lunch Program do not always meet our CACFP and Head Start standards and therefore need to be adjusted.

The registered dietitian works with the schools providing meals for Head Start children to ensure they meet our requirements. Parishville-Hopkinton Central School is a great partner in providing the meals and encourages parent feedback on the menus.

Anyone with suggestions, comments or concerns can contact the main office, 386-8574.

Jennifer Pfotenhauer, RD

Nutrition and Disabilities

Coordinator

Community Development Program,