Fresno Metro Ministry Recognized by White House for Healthy Foods Program that Includes Fresno Unified Schools

What: White House selects Fresno Metro Ministry for healthy foods initiative; Fresno Unified students benefit

When: Friday, April 5, 2024
11 a.m.

Where: Muir Elementary School
410 E. Dennett Ave. (93728)

Fresno Metro Ministry was selected to be part of the White House Challenge to End Hunger and Build Healthy Communities and is partnering with Fresno Unified and other organizations during the initial phase. About 1,000 students at 12 campuses, including Muir Elementary School, are learning how to grow and cook their own healthy food, and even how to sell their own produce at farmers markets. Students are also learning about the food ecosystem and about health disparities within communities because of food insecurity.

Fresno Metro Ministry, one of 141 stakeholders chosen nationwide by the White House, was selected for its commitment to launching the Healthy Food Solutions Partnership Program. The program brings together local government, businesses, community organizations and school districts to develop leadership and advocacy skills in young people for a healthier future. As one of Fresno Unified's after school program vendors through the Expanded Learning Department, Fresno Metro Ministry is providing cooking and gardening classes to students across several Fresno Unified schools.

"We're thrilled that our commitment was selected by the White House, but even more excited about what that means for our community in terms of creating generational change that positively impacts health disparities and food insecurity and also the potential funding support to bring our Healthy Food Solutions Partnership Program to fruition," says Emogene Nelson, executive director of Fresno Metro Ministry.

"We are excited to partner with Fresno Metro Ministry on this project so that our students learn about healthy eating and solutions for ending hunger, and hopefully educate their families as well," said Fresno Unified Superintendent Bob Nelson.

Speakers will include Fresno Metro Ministry Executive Director Emogene Nelson, Fresno Unified Deputy Superintendent Misty Her, board of education members and students who participated in the program.

There will be opportunities to view the school garden.