Schools can apply for new breakfast grants

Up to $3,000 in funding will be available to qualifying schools throughout the state for the Missouri Breakfast Challenge, according to Gov. Jay Nixon.
"Breakfast after the bell makes sense and can lead to better health and educational outcome for kids," said Jon Barry, director of No Kid Hungry Missouri, which is a part of a national organization that works to end childhood hunger.
Nixon agreed, noting "kids who eat breakfast perform better, are more alert, better able to concentrate and 20 percent more likely to graduate."
The governor's office noted the funding will come from a community service block grant to help local schools cover the costs for equipment to help make breakfast an essential part of the school day.
According to No Kid Hungry's national statistics, one out of five children in America experience hunger.
To combat hunger locally, the Missouri chapter plans to help increase access to meals in the summer months, increase the number of schools offering afternoon snacks and meals and ensure low-income children who qualify are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
Applications for local school districts can be submitted through Sept. 30 at dss.mo.gov.
The Missouri Breakfast Challenge is a collaboration between the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Feeding Missouri and the Midwest Dairy Council.