Despite the unexpected change of our annual Empty Bowl Event from being an in person event to a virtual event, it was a huge success. A big thank you to the 91 sponsors and those from the community that participated with the purchase of individual tickets. Their support along with the sales of the auction bowls we were able to meet our goal of A MILLION MEALS! So far, over $245,000 was raised providing over 1.2 million meals!
The new TEFAP forms will be out and should be used beginning October 1, 2021. A virtual TEFAP training is scheduled for September 30th at 1:00pm and an alternate time of October the 1st at 10:00 am will be offered. This training is mandatory for already participating partner agencies.
If your agency is interested in participating in the TEFAP program or you just want information on what the program is all about, this is a great time to learn more. Participating in the TEFAP program will give your agency an additional source of nutritious food that is available in case lots. Below is the link to participate in the Training.
When was the last time you sat down to eat together with your family at home? October is National Eat Better, Eat Together Month. It’s a great time to start enjoying meals together if you’re not already. Eating together as a family allows children and adults to focus on the task at hand…EATING!
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics reports that children of families who regularly eat together:
are more likely to have higher intakes of fruits and vegetables and have a healthy weight, and
are less likely to have behavior problems or use drugs, cigarettes or alcohol when they get older.
Beyond health and nutrition, family meals provide a valuable opportunity for children and parents to reconnect.
TIP: Did you know that the average pounds distributed by GMFB partner agencies per household is 38.5 pounds of food. It takes takes 10.8 pounds of food to feed a family of 3 for one day.
In partnership with Public Health we will be providing you with flyers promoting healthy tips and recipes that you can print off and provide to your guests at your distribution. They will be provided in both English and in Spanish. The series will run for 10 months. This resource and more are available in the Agency Toolkit on our website under Nutrition Resources folder. This is a great way to build relationships and a healthier community!
Georgia Family Connection connects and convenes key community members committed to improving the well-being of children and families. Local collaboratives connect partners to the resources they need, coordinate and manage efforts, and empower communities to craft local solutions based on local decisions.
Many counties have a local collaboratives open to the community in which you can participate monthly. Below is a link to locate your county collaborative and more information about Family Connections. Their website also provides many resources and data tools that you can access as well.
