Children participating in school meal programs are less likely to have nutrient inadequacies and more likely to consume fruit, vegetables and milk. In fact, for many students, school meals are the healthiest meal they have all day. This not only helps to improve long-term health, but also closes gaps in educational achievement. Children experiencing food insecurity are more likely to miss school and struggle with tests. They struggle socially and emotionally. Hunger creates an obstacle to success.
That’s why Colorado’s Healthy School Meals for All program is so critical.
Colorado’s Healthy School Meals for All program helps schools provide more than 600,000 meals each day and makes a big difference for kids in our state, including students in Archuleta County. The Archuleta School District saw a 40% increase in students eating meals at school when the program began in the 2023-2024 school year and students are continuing to participate in the program this school year as well.
According to representative sample in Healthy Archuleta’s 2024 Community Survey, 73% of residents reported high food prices to be a major or minor challenge in getting enough of the food they need and want. Additionally, 35% of residents reported being worried about not being able to afford enough food to feed themselves and their families over the next year.
This finding further highlights the need to bring access to free breakfast and lunch for all students in our community.
In order to continue providing these vital meals to our families, we invite our community to learn about House Bill 25-1274. This bill aims to advance the program, ensure its sustainability as it expands, and facilitate initiatives like purchasing food from Colorado farmers and ranchers, bolstering our local food system. Every dollar spent locally for school food adds $1.86 to the economy, and every job created by a district’s purchasing results in an overall increase of 2.43 jobs according to a recent report. This brings money into our communities.
Additionally, participating in Health School Meals for All saves families up to $1,300 per child per year.
By continuing to support Healthy School Meals for All Colorado communities are investing in the health, education, and future of our children and strengthening our local economy. This isn’t just about meals; it’s about building a thriving, secure community for everyone.
To learn more about the efforts of Healthy Archuleta, please visit our website at www.foodcoalition4archuleta.org or send us an email at fsfearchuleta@gmail.com.