Newman's Own Foundation is currently accepting applications for the Food Justice for Kids Award. The foundation will provide up to $1 million in funding to nonprofit organizations, public schools, and tribal communities working to improve food justice for children in the United States.
Organizations can submit projects in the pilot phase or beyond that serve youth under the age of 18 and fall into one of two focus areas: Indigenous food justice and nutrition education, and school meals.
“The award’s two program areas reflect two of our three priority program areas… Our mission to nourish and transform lives for children facing adversity It’s about pushing it even further,” Alex Amoyel, president and CEO of Newman’s Own Foundation, told Food Tank. “We are identifying programs that are ready to transform the food justice landscape, create lasting change, and prepare a generation of children to carry on this work.”
Projects submitted to the Indigenous Food Justice category address food justice for Indigenous children by supporting access to traditional, nutritious, and affordable foods. Efforts should be made to shift control of food resources to indigenous communities for their benefit.
Applications in the Nutrition Education and School Lunch category support food and nutrition education to improve health outcomes for young eaters by changing school policies and practices and increasing access to healthy school meals. We need to build a food ecosystem. These projects should further involve children in the process of growing and preparing healthy and culturally relevant foods.
Up to five applicants in each category will receive grants of up to USD 50,000 in 2024. Each winner also has the opportunity to receive an additional grant of up to $50,000 in 2015 and may be eligible to receive additional grants. Funding for 2026 and beyond. Additionally, applicants who reach the finalist stage may be awarded a $10,000 grant through the Foundation's Community Choice Award.
Amuel explains that the 10 grantees will also be part of the learning cohort, joining the foundation's existing grantee partners. “Through this, they can learn best practices from their colleagues, share challenges and solutions, and collaborate with policymakers on broader state and federal change.”
Newman's Own Foundation launched the Food Justice for Kids Prize to address food insecurity and its associated negative health impacts, including developmental delays, chronic disease and mental health issues. Approximately 13 million children live in food-insecure households, according to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
“We envision America as a nation where every child has access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food. Learn about healthy foods and sustainable food systems. And grow your food. , the opportunity to gather, cook, and nourish ourselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually,” Amuiel told Food Tank.
The application period is now open and will end on June 11, 2024. The winner will be announced in September 2024. Learn more about the grant and click here to apply.
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Photo courtesy of U.S. Department of Agriculture.