Nutrition

History of School Nutrition Programs: In 1946, the U. S. Congress created the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), as a measure of national security to safeguard the health and well being of the Nation's children and to encourage the consumption of nutritious domestic agricultural commodities and other food. In 1966, Congress created the School Breakfast Program (SBP).

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The basic objectives of both programs remain the same today. School nutrition programs serve education, families, and communities in these ways:

  • Children who are well nourished perform better and have fewer absences.
  • Nourished children experience fewer social and psychological difficulties.
  • School meals provide balanced nutrition and minimize food safety concerns.
  • Parents appreciate the convenience, quality and affordability of school meals.
  • School meals support the local economy and provide jobs.

Colorado Facts:

  • Colorado schools serve 49.1 million lunches and 7.7 million breakfasts each year
  • Over 3,000 food service professionals serve Colorado's children each day
  • Average daily participation in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is 287,846
  • Average daily participation in the School Breakfast Program (SBP) is 45,271
  • Over 700 schools participate in the School Breakfast Program (SBP)

Harrison Facts:

  • Harrison Nutrition Services employs 124 professionals
  • Over 300,000 students eat breakfast in our schools yearly
  • Over 1,100,000 students eat lunch in our schools yearly
  • Average daily participation in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is 6,551
  • Average daily participation in the School Breakfast Program (SBP) is 1,970