News Flash

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

CONTACT: Lori Turner at (401) 847-5769 or lturner@middletownri.com

SNACKS FOR SUCCESS 

MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (JUNE 27, 2024) – Middletown’s “Snacks for Students” pilot program has been a huge success with students, teachers and administrators this spring. 

The Middletown Outreach Department partnered with school food provider Chartwells to offer United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved snacks in each elementary and middle school classroom as needed to further address food insecurity in Middletown. 

Healthy Communities Coordinator Lori Turner said students with access to healthy food have higher levels of concentration and better educational outcomes, facts backed up by countless school studies. 

The program was such a hit, Turner said the decision was made recently to bring it back for the 2024-2025 school year.

“We’re excited to share the program will continue next school year,” Turner said. “Special thanks to State Representative Alex Finkelman for his support and to Chartwells and the school administrative teams for making this such a successful program.”

Students and school staff agreed, saying the program helped provide focus and success for young learners across Middletown.

“Aquidneck loves the snack program!”  Principal Erica Bulk said. “Having snacks for everyone allows all students the ability to fuel their brains and be that much more successful.”

The boys in first grade like the snacks in their classroom too. “If your Mom forgets to pack you a snack you can go to the snack basket,” one said. 

A third grade girl said “I like that the snacks are healthier because they don’t have a lot of sugar.”

Previously, Finkelman provided a state check to help support the effort.  For more about the Outreach Department and its programs positively impacting every sector of Middletown, visit https://mdl.town/Outreach online.

Document Link: https://mdl.town/NYCU-Snacks