RESOLUTION NO. RS2009-694

A resolution in support of the Fresh Fruits and Vegetables for Healthier Children Program.

WHEREAS, the Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Program was initiated in 2008 and with funding slated to increase annually the program is available for each eligible school in Tennessee grades pre-K to 8th-grade of which 97 Metro Nashville Public Schools are eligible for grants to purchase, prepare and distribute fresh fruits and vegetables; and

WHEREAS, it is encouraging each Metropolitan Nashville Public School eligible to apply for these grants which help provide funds to buy fresh fruits and vegetables as this program is an important catalyst for change in our efforts to combat childhood obesity by helping children learn more healthy eating habits and to introduce Nashville’s children to healthier snack choices in schools; and

WHEREAS, introducing fresh fruits and vegetables to the students through the schools is one way to provide some nutrition which they may otherwise not get; and expand the variety of fruits and vegetables children experience which will make a difference in children’s diets to impact their present and future health; and

WHEREAS, children need good nutrition to help them stay alert and learn at school. Nourished children who are not hungry make fewer trips to the school nurse’s office and have better school attendance and less tardiness. Fruits and vegetables are a big part of good nutrition and this program enables children to benefit who may have limited access to nutritious foods outside of school because of financial constraints at home; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council expresses their support for the Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Program created by the 2008 farm bill for Healthier Children Program and its desire that all eligible Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools submit an application.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. The Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record in support of the Fresh Fruits and Vegetables for Healthier Children Program.

Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Duane Dominy

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
Referred to:	Education Committee
Introduced:	April 7, 2009
Adopted:	April 7, 2009
Approved:	April 9, 2009
By: