POVERTY COUNTIES ELIGIBLE FOR AFTER-SCHOOL MEALS FOR CHILDREN

(02/02/2008)

Because of high poverty rates among children, West Virginia qualifies to provide after school meals to needy students. Calhoun County and several regional counties are listed by Kids Count as having one of the highest rates of poverty in West Virginia. Calhoun was ranked at 51 out of 55 counties in 2006 with the most children eligible for free or reduced lunch. About 70% of Calhoun children are currently eligible, according to administrator Donnie Pitts. The local school system, which provides both breakfast and lunch, could be the primary source of nutrition for many children. "The Office of Child Nutrition is excited to administer the at-risk after-school supper program in West Virginia," said Richard Goff, executive director of the West Virginia Department of Education's Office of Child Nutrition. "We know that many children in our state are hungry and this program will help our sponsors improve the health and well-being of all the children they serve," he said. To qualify for the program, participants must: - Be located in an attendance area of a school in which 50 percent of enrolled children are eligible for free and reduced school meals. - Be operated by a school, private nonprofit organization, or local government agency. - Offer educational or enrichment activities. - Meet state and local health and safety standards or be licensed. To participate, call the West Virginia Department of Education's Office of Child Nutrition at (304) 558-3396.

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