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.
April's Food of the Month is Bananas!
Bananas are one of the world’s most popular fruits and the most exported, comprising 75% of the tropical fruit trade. Even Elvis Presley’s favorite sandwich was a banana, peanut butter, and bacon sandwich! These fantastic fruits that come encased in nature’s own wrapper are packed with nutrition. Bananas are chock-full of fiber, which is linked with improved digestive health, and potassium, a nutrient that promotes heart health. They are also highly versatile: eat as a quick snack on the run; blended into a smoothie; indulge in a classic banana and vanilla wafer pudding; or even use those old overly brown bananas to bake up some delicious banana bread. Don’t be afraid to experiment; your taste buds (and body) will surely appreciate your creativity!
Resources:
Menu for the week of March 30 – April 5, 2025
Download a copy of the menu of the week
Notes: Milk served will be flavored or unflavored fat-free or 1% white. Condiments served at breakfast and lunch will be fat-free or low fat. Fruit juices served will be 100% juice.
Menu for the week of April 6 – April 12, 2025
Download a copy of the menu of the week
Notes: Milk served will be flavored or unflavored fat-free or 1% white. Condiments served at breakfast and lunch will be fat-free or low fat. Fruit juices served will be 100% juice.
Menu for the week of April 13 – April 19, 2025
Download a copy of the menu of the week
Notes: Milk served will be flavored or unflavored fat-free or 1% white. Condiments served at breakfast and lunch will be fat-free or low fat. Fruit juices served will be 100% juice.
Menu for the week of April 20 – April 26, 2025
Download a copy of the menu of the week
Notes: Milk served will be flavored or unflavored fat-free or 1% white. Condiments served at breakfast and lunch will be fat-free or low fat. Fruit juices served will be 100% juice.
