Preparing for Summer

It's not too soon to start thinking about summer. HOST members offer some suggestions for how to bring healthy eating and physical activity to our schools and communities in the coming season!

• The National Recreation and Park Association shares "Three Ways You Can Advocate for Summer Nutrition," noting that "One of the most critical times of the year to keep children healthy is during the summer, when many children may not have access to healthy food and may not be as physically active as they are during the school year."
• The National Summer Learning Association discusses how the Summer Food Service Program "ensures kids don't go hungry in the summer."
• CitiesSpeak explains how "Parks and Recreation Agencies Can Help Fill the Summer Nutrition Gap."
• Alliance for a Healthier Generation gives us "7 Lessons from the Garden" for both vegetable beds and life.
• The USDA has announced grants to allow more farmers markets to serve low-income families, enabling them to accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits provided through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as payment.
• Finally, once your garden is underway or you have vegetables from the farmers market, the American Heart Association reminds us that "Grilling Season is Here!" and you can grill in healthy ways.