Apply now for 2008-09 Team Nutrition mini-grants

South Dakota’s Team Nutrition program is now taking applications for mini-grants for the 2008-09 school year. A program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Team Nutrition seeks to promote the nutritional health of the nation’s school children.

Grants for gardening
Mini-grants of up to $500 will be awarded for supplies for gardening projects (eg., seeds, potting soil, starter pots, shovels, hoes). Funds may not be used to purchase large equipment or to purchase topsoil, irrigation supplies, or fencing. The gardening mini-grants will run February-September 2008. Organizations that participate in USDA child nutrition programs may apply for these grants.

Promoting fruits and vegetables
Mini-grants of up to $500 will be awarded for events that focus on the importance of eating fruits and vegetables. Funds may be used to purchase fruits and vegetables and other event-related expenses such as incentives. Events might include plays, concerts, or a fruit and vegetable week. Grants will run February-September 2008. Organizations that participate in USDA child nutrition programs may apply for these grants.

Getting a dietitian on board
Mini-grants of $2,000-$5,000 will be awarded to schools to hire a registered dietitian. Individual school districts can apply for up to $2,000. Districts may apply together as a group and receive up to $5,000. A registered dietitian may be hired to assist with menu planning, training for school food service staff, helping schools evaluate their school environment, implementing policies that will encourage students to make healthier choices, and similar activities. Schools will receive points on their application if they apply for the HealthierUS School Challenge. These grants will run February 2008- September 2009.

To apply, go to www.doe.sd.gov/oess/cans/nutrition and click on “2008 S.D. Mini-grant Applications.”