Welcome back to our blog series, the No Kid Hungry New York Partner Spotlight. Each month, we’ll be speaking to our partners across the state, learning what’s new in their school meals programs, and celebrating the tremendous work they do to ensure that more kids have access to the fuel they need to learn, grow, and thrive. This month, we heard from Sue Whalen and Reanna Buscaglia from West Seneca Central School District a PK-12 district in Western New York.
What’s new in breakfast in your school meals program this year?
This year, we launched Breakfast Carts which offer a grab and go option for students. We received four carts from a grant from No Kid Hungry. We also purchased new carts for some of our Middle and Elementary buildings. This has helped with breakfast participation in a positive way!
What are some of the challenges you’re facing right now in your school meals program?
High food and equipment costs are always a concern. We are always actively promoting fresh fruits and fresh vegetables that are in season to support local farmers, encourage trying new food for students and have less food waste. We are also actively trying to increase breakfast participation by adding new, nutritious items to the menu.
What’s your favorite breakfast to serve? What do the kids love to eat?
Our favorite meals to serve are also the students favorites to eat, which are bagels and mini waffles!
If you could invite someone famous to breakfast at your school, who would it be and why?
Josh Allen or Dion Dawkins! They are strong role models to kids and in the community, and they look up to them. I feel they could speak about Nutrition and the importance of balanced meals and breakfast to help kids grow to be strong like them.
If you could tell everyone in America something about school breakfast, what would you tell them?
Starting the day off with breakfast helps kids focus and sets the tone for the day. It is hard to focus and learn on an empty stomach. It takes the burden off of parents knowing there is a meal waiting for their child when they come to school.
At No Kid Hungry New York, we thank Sue, Reanna, and the food service staff members at West Seneca Central School District for their dedication and enthusiasm in feeding kids throughout the school year. We’re grateful to support their work and honored to shine a spotlight on their extraordinary programs!
