Addressing Childhood Hunger during the Summer Months: Using Gleaned Produce for Snacks and Interactive Nutrition Education on Food Systems and Healthy Eating

In the United States, 6.5 million children experience food insecurity. The purpose of this project was to evaluate the Building Blocks for Healthy Kids summer nutrition education program for low-income children. Twenty-six children ages 6-11 years participated in the six-lesson program that included snacks incorporating gleaned produce. Plate waste data indicated 55-80% of the served snack was consumed. Knowledge related to nutrition and food systems increased between pre- and post-intervention (p < .0001). At post-intervention, children reported practicing more mindful and sustainable eating practices. Overall, the program increased knowledge and improved food-related behaviors in low-income children.