- Author: Maira Enriquez
May 2, 2015-Champions for Change & Fresno Community Market hosted their annual Fruit and Veggie Fest in downtown Fresno. They put together healthy food demonstrations, free health screenings, fun activities for kids, raffle prizes and a ribbon cutting of the smarter snacking station at a local retail store. This is an annual event that occurs throughout the entire state through the department of Public Health.
This year UC Cooperative Extension of Fresno partnered and helped distribute a coloring contest through Lowell Elementary. Nutrition Program Coordinator, Maira Enriquez, distributed coloring contest fliers and had over 80 student participants. Five winners were chosen from each grade level, ranging from preschool to fifth grade.
Partnerships such as this support healthier communities in Fresno County!
- Author: Nora Rey Lopez
- Photographer: Yolanda S. Lopez
During my recent visit to the Children's Corner preschool in Firebaugh I received a surprise!!! They were working on their new garden! According to Christy Trujillo, they received funding through a garden grant from Fresno City College. They were one of the five sites chosen. I am so proud of them!
"It has been a great experience for the children and teachers", says Christy.
The children and teachers are growing pumpkins, watermelons, strawberries, carrots, sweet peppers and tomatoes. Soon Children's Corner students will be tasting fresh and delicious vegetables and fruits.
What plant part is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.
- Author: Nelly Carrillo
The summer months mean hungry little ones searching the kitchen for something healthy to eat. Here are a few affordable and healthy options to keep on hand for an easy snack when your kids get the munchies!
Kitchen Pantry Summer Essentials for Kids:
- Tomato Sauce-low sodium: great for a healthy home made pizza or pasta dish.
- Canned Fruit packed in water or 100% juice: pineapple chunks, peaches, or mixed fruit.
- Canned Vegetables: sweet corn, mixed veggies, chili beans, green beans.
- Baked tortilla chips with fresh salsa.
- Chicken or Chunk Light Tuna in water.
- Whole grain bagels, pita bread, whole grain bread, whole grain hot dog or hamburger buns.
- Reduced fat peanut butter.
Protein and Dairy Options
- Reduced Fat or Part Skim Mozzarella Cheese
- Turkey Deli meat – Low Sodium
- Turkey Hot Dog Links
- Low-Fat Milk
- Turkey Pepperoni
- Boiled eggs (pre-cook and leave in refrigerator for children to enjoy)
- Low-Fat fruit flavored yogurt
Fresh Fruits & Vegetables
Have plenty of seasonal produce on hand, washed and ready to use.
Tip: Ask your children what are some of their favorite fruits & veggies.
My healthy plate is an excellent guide that helps us to think of different foods. For more ideas, visit www.choosemyplate.gov
