Child Nutrition Program Returns with Farm-to-Table Experience

Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino will again offer its TGIF (The Goodness in Food) nutrition program for elementary students this September, expanding last year's curriculum to include a hands-on harvest experience at a local farm.

The four-week program for children in grades 2-5 returns with partnerships including California Baptist University presenters and a cooking demonstration by chef Kianna from the Riverside Free Health Clinic.

"Being able to experience nutrition education at a palatable level, kids learn about health and wellness while being involved with food choices and meal preparation at home," said Carolyn Fajardo, CEO of FARSB.

This year's program culminates with a field trip to Overflow Farms on Sept. 27, where participants will harvest produce and learn about the food cycle from plant to plate—a new addition to the curriculum.

The timing of the program takes on added significance as FARSB faces potential increased demand. The organization warned in July that federal cuts to SNAP benefits could eliminate billions of meals nationwide, potentially straining food banks already struggling to meet community needs.

TGIF sessions will run Saturday mornings from 9-10 a.m. on Sept. 6, 13 and 20 at the FARSB Learning Center, 4035 Trail Creek Road. The final farm session shifts to 3-4 p.m. at Overflow Farms, 4850 Jurupa Ave.

The program is part of FARSB's expanded educational offerings at its Hunger Resource Center, which marked its first anniversary in July after helping submit more than 2,100 CalFresh applications and serving an average of 200 households monthly through its Fresh Start Pantry.

FARSB serves as the primary food source for more than 250 nonprofit organizations in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, distributing more than 3.1 million pounds of food monthly.

More information: Pre-registration is required for all four sessions. Parents can sign up their children at FeedingAmericaIE.org/TGIF.