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October 2024

Volume 20 Issue 7


The National School Lunch Act became a United States federal law in 1946 and created the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) with federal funding. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a joint proclamation with Congress designating the second full week of October to be National School Lunch Week. Since that year, school lunch programs have been available, although some schools struggled to find funds and resources. The Program serves nearly 30 million children every school day.

 

The theme for 2024 is “School Lunch Pirates: Find Your Treasure”! The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has created materials that assist you and Child Nutrition staff in promoting participation during National School Lunch Week! Check out the square meals website for more information. Parents, check it out and teach your kids. 

 

Today, many school districts not only offer lunch, but breakfast and an after-school snack. The week focuses on healthy food choices, balanced diets, and portion sizes.

Schools focus on this goal throughout the year and encourage kids and teens to eat a healthy lunch, whether it is from the school or brought from home. The most important factor is for the student to “eat” a healthy lunch.

Throughout the week, Child Nutrition and cafeteria personnel will feature posters and information about school lunches. Parents are encouraged to participate, too.

 

Visit Square Meals for more info and tools



Deborah L. Woehler, MS, RDN, LD

Executive Director, Oliver Foundation

 


Breast Cancer Awareness Month


Breast Cancer Awareness Month takes place in October every year. It began in 1985 as a week-long event and was championed by the American Cancer Society and Imperial Chemical Industries. Betty Ford, who was diagnosed with breast cancer while her husband Gerald was president, helped launch the event. Organizers set up national and local events all over the country every October.


Oliver Foundation Healthy Choices Grant

Next Deadline October 15, 2024
Apply Now



Healthier Texas Summit


Join us for the Healthier Texas Summit, where Texas’ leading voices in public health and wellness convene to address our communities' evolving challenges and opportunities for change.


The 2024 Healthier Texas Summit will take place in Austin, TX

on Oct. 10-11, 2024


For more information and registration

0-11, 2024.


Texas Action for Healthy Kids Virtual Summit

School Health – It’s Academic!

October 22-23, 2024


Day 1 - Tuesday October 22, 11:30am - 5:00pm


Day 2 - Wednesday, October 23, 8:45am - 12:30pm



Agenda will include:

• How School Health Impacts Student Success

• SHAC 101/ Wellness Policies/WSCC for Administrators

• How Local Foods can Improve Your Program

• The Youth Voice - Hear from some of our active, engaged youth how they are 

  coping and helping their peers.

• Mental Health/SEL – Student and Staff

• Physical Education, Physical Activity and the Whole Child

• Youth Risk Prevention


Register now for free Summit








The Oliver Foundation Teen Advisory Board is a 15 member organization represented by students across the Houston area. Each month you'll meet a different member who will share their perspective on living a healthy life. 




Sid Satish, Teen Board President

Clements High School, Sugar Land, TX

Teen Board Member 2022 – Present






Managing Senior Stress


As a senior in high school, staying healthy is crucial to navigating the demands of your final year. Prioritizing physical health by maintaining a consistent exercise routine can make a significant difference. Activities like jogging, walking, yoga, or even quick stretches help to release endorphins, reduce stress, and improve focus. Additionally, getting enough sleep is often overlooked but essential for maintaining cognitive function and emotional balance during this busy time. Aim for at least 7–8 hours of sleep each night to help your body recover and stay energized.

The college application season can be both exciting and overwhelming for seniors. Managing time effectively is key to reducing stress during this process. Create a schedule to organize application deadlines, essay drafts, and test preparation, which will help prevent last-minute panic. It’s also important to take breaks and avoid overloading yourself. Remember to stay connected with family, friends, and school counselors, as their support can be valuable during this period. Staying organized and seeking help when needed can keep the stress manageable.

Senior year stress is often heightened by the pressure to balance academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and social commitments. To combat this, it’s essential to practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or journaling. These practices can help clear your mind and reduce anxiety. It’s also helpful to set realistic goals and prioritize tasks. Rather than trying to do everything perfectly, focus on progress and celebrate small victories along the way.

Healthy eating plays a critical role in maintaining energy and focus, especially for high school seniors. Incorporating a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can support your overall well-being. Avoid excessive consumption of junk food, sugary snacks, and caffeine, which can lead to energy crashes and affect concentration. Instead, opt for healthy snacks like nuts, yogurt, or fresh fruit, which provide sustained energy. Staying hydrated is equally important, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and mind functioning at their best.


Sid Satish

October 2024



Healthy Choices Nov2010
The Oliver Foundation
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Suite F, #256
Houston, TX 77007
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