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U.S. Sen. Harkin: Harkin announces nearly $350,000 to improve childhood nutrition in Iowa
9/2/2009

Contact: Kate Cyrul / Bergen Kenny 202-224-3254



Washington, DC – Senator Tom Harkin today announced that the state of Iowa will receive $349,685 in Team Nutrition Training Grants through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) . The funds will be used to help children develop good nutrition and physical activity habits for healthier lifestyles. Harkin is Chairman of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee.

“A healthy lifestyle begins at a young age. I have long fought to make sure kids are getting plenty of exercise and to improve childhood nutrition,” said Harkin. “I am pleased that this funding will help food service staff learn how to incorporate more fruits and veggies into their meals.”

Specifically, states will provide training and technical assistance to food service staff in preparing more fruits and vegetables, whole-grain products and other healthier foods. The grants also support efforts to help schools reach out to parents, teachers, caregivers and others to capitalize on the positive role-model potential they have for children.

In the 2002 Farm Bill, Harkin created the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, which allows elementary school children to receive free fresh fruit and vegetable snacks at school. Harkin is also working to modernize the school lunch program and to get junk food out of public schools.

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