Amidst the challenging hardships of the last several years, there are stories of hope – among them, the heroes that have worked tirelessly to ensure kids in California and beyond have the nutritious meals they need to learn and grow.
With 1 in 7 kids in California facing hunger, the people who prepare, serve and plan school meals are some of the most important people confronting this issue. This year they faced both logistical challenges and added costs, making their work to provide meals for the kids who need them all the more heroic.
No Kid Hungry works to recognize and celebrate the unsung Hunger Heroes that make significant contributions to ending child hunger in our communities across California.
Meet Geri Petersen, one of our 2023 Hunger Heroes!
Geri Petersen is the Cafeteria Lead at Fullerton Joint Union High School District (FJUHSD) and has worked all her life in the food service industry. With most of her career working at Troy High School, where she is currently serving her 30th year with the school district. As the Cafeteria Lead at FJUHSD’s highest enrolled comprehensive school, with an enrollment of approximately 2,500 students, Geri is dedicated to her passion and mission to serve all students.
We had the opportunity to ask Geri some questions, so please take a moment to learn more about our Hunger Hero and join us in applauding Geri Petersen. We’re so thankful for you, and for all the dedicated people working in our schools and communities to keep kids nourished and healthy.
What led you to school nutrition and your current role?
As a child growing up in Ireland I did not have access to school lunches. I remember the hunger pains especially during lunch watching other kids eat. Going back to class and not being able to concentrate. This is something that I was always passionate about. I know how hunger has an effect on your ability to learn.
I actually came across the advertisement for this job in the pennysaver 30 years ago. A lot has changed in 30 years but giving every kid an opportunity to have a free school meal is the best change hands down.
Why is it important to celebrate school nutrition professionals?
Oftentimes people who work in Food Service are not looked at in a positive light. People like to be appreciated for a job well done. We really do care about our students’ wellbeing and work very hard to provide nutritionally sound food. It feels wonderful to be recognized and celebrated.
Looking back through these last challenging couple of years, what makes you proud?
Part of our student population that we serve are our Special Education students. They are always positive and happy in spite of their daily challenges. I love the interaction with them and it’s the favorite part of my day. During a very difficult and uncertain time for all of us, we were able to continue to feed and serve the students and the community that really needed our support.
Do you have any final thoughts to share?
I would like to add the importance of a good team and creating a positive working environment for them. I try to make my staff feel important and appreciated. It’s also important for people to know that the cafeteria is a warm, friendly and welcoming place for the kids, it provides a break from their studies and stress of school work. The kids love when you remember their names, just doing little things to make them feel special and welcomed.
Last Reviewed: June 8, 2023