USDA Commodities…Healthy Choices, American Grown
Factsheets, recipes and other resources about the healthfulness of USDA commodities.
http://www.fns.usda.gov/fdd/food-distribution-programs
National Nutrition Month
Learn what schools are doing across the country to celebrate school Nutrition programs.
http://www.eatright.org
School Breakfast – Why It Is Important
Find out what’s new in the world of School Breakfast.
Say Yes to School Breakfast!
Fruits and Veggies – More Matters
Fruit & Veggies – More Matters website will give you practical tips on how to get more fruits and veggies in your family’s diet, local recipes to make local fruits and veggies everyone’s favorite, and nutrition information that teaches you how to keep a good balance.
http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org
Gameskidsplay.net
From jump rope rhymes to instructions on how to play basketball, this website is packed with information on outdoor play, sports, and unique activities.
http://www.gameskidsplay.net
Outdoor Games for Kids
This site provides descriptions for unique and innovative games that can be played in groups outside.
http://www.indianchild.com/outdoor_games.htm
Links and Resources for Financial Assistance
Many families are currently facing unexpected financial difficulties. If you have been affected, there are resources available for which you may be eligible.
- You may apply for West Ottawa school meal benefits at https://wo-food.westottawa.net/login.aspx. This quick and easy to use website sends your application to us immediately for quick determination of your families’ eligibility. You may also obtain a paper application from your child’s school office or the Food Service office located at Macatawa Bay Middle School. If your family qualifies for reduced price meal benefits, breakfast is $.30 and lunch is $.40 per day.
- Department of Human Services (DHS) @ (616) 394-7200, located on James St. just east of US31 and found on the web at http://www.michigan.gov/dhs. You may apply for food stamp assistance at this office. Qualifying for free meals may automatically qualify you for food stamps.
- Macatawa Resource Center, @ (616) 738-6620, located at 665 – 136th Av., is the north end branch of Community Action House and also provides low cost clothing and a food pantry.
- Good Samaritan Ministries @ (616) 392-7159, (http://www.goodsamministries.com) is a referral agency and operates a Care Closet that provides household products such as laundry detergent, personal care products, diapers, and other items not covered by food stamps.
- The Salvation Army, @ (616) 392-4461, may be able to help with utility shut off notices and food.
