In a significant move to promote healthier eating in schools, Action for Healthy Kids (AFHK) has introduced the Healthy Meals Incentives Recognition Awards. This initiative, in collaboration with the USDA Food and Nutrition Service, aims to honor School Food Authorities (SFA) that have significantly enhanced the nutritional quality of their school meals.

The awards are part of a broader effort to align school meals with the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Recognizing the vital role that school meals play in combating food insecurity and promoting healthy diets among students, the initiative seeks to celebrate innovative practices, community engagement, and effective strategies adopted by schools.

SFAs meeting the stringent criteria for the Recognition Awards will not only receive national and local acknowledgment but also a comprehensive awardee toolkit, which includes digital assets. Additionally, selected awardees will be granted travel stipends to attend a national Healthy Meals Summit, where they can share insights and learn from peers.

Action for Healthy Kids is set to amplify the success stories of the Recognition Awardees nationwide. This will be done through various channels, including traditional and social media, stakeholder engagement, as well as training and technical assistance activities. The aim is to disseminate diverse best practices across the country to encourage more schools to adopt similar measures.

The application portal for the Healthy Meals Incentives Recognition Awards is now open, with the application period extending from June 30, 2023, to June 30, 2025. SFAs interested in applying can submit their applications via the MyAFHK Portal. The process includes an application review by the HMI Team on a rolling basis, ensuring that applicants receive timely feedback and recognition.

As the deadlines approach, AFHK is also offering webinars and resources to assist applicants in understanding the criteria and application process. These resources are available for download and viewing on the AFHK website.

This initiative represents a significant step in addressing food insecurity and nutrition education in schools. By recognizing and sharing best practices, AFHK and the USDA are working towards creating a healthier future for children across the nation. Schools interested in applying or seeking assistance can reach out to awards@healthymealsincentives.org for further information.