The Department of Juvenile Services' Food and Nutritional Services team assist in learning about nutrition through various traditions such as posters, monthly food menu choices, and other fun activities. We incorporate menu selections and food choices into holidays, celebrations, and special occasions, such as National School Breakfast Week, National School Lunch Week, and National Nutrition Month. Each month, the program focuses on a Food of the Month to serve in the department's residential facility cafeterias. The purpose of the Food of the Month promotion is to highlight the nutritional benefits of healthy eating, wellness, and making health conscious food choices in an adolescent's diet. This food item is chosen based on consideration of the diverse ethnicities, cultures, and the correlation to the traditions of various backgrounds.
Learn more about the
Maryland State Department of Education's School Breakfast Program (SBP) and check out the SBP Fact Sheet from USDA, which provides an overview of the program, eligibility details, nutrition requirements, and other information.
Maryland's Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) provides nutritious meals and snacks to low-income children (ages 18 and under) during June, July, and August when school is not in session. For more information visit the
Maryland Public Schools website to find a site near you.
August's Food of the Month is Watermelon!
Juicy, sweet, red watermelon...is there a fruit that more perfectly captures summer in a bite? But there is so much more to this fruit than meets the eye. Watermelon is actually related to cantaloupes, zucchinis, pumpkins, and cucumbers! Containing 91% water, it’s the perfect way to hydrate on hot summer days. However, make sure to enjoy it in early fall as well because these refreshing fruits are in season in Maryland until October! Watermelon is low in calories, but high in nutrition. Two-thirds of a cup has only 30 calories; in addition to being a rich source of vitamin C, potassium, copper, vitamin B5, and vitamin A, watermelon is loaded with citrulline and lycopene, plant compounds linked to reduced blood pressure and improved insulin sensitivity in some people. Include watermelon at your summer (and fall) barbecues for a refreshingly delicious way to meet My Plate fruit guidelines.
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