NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk's Azalea Gardens Middle School received a $4,487 grant as part of No Kid Hungry Virginia’s recent $32,000 grant investment across the state to support alternative school breakfast models, known nationwide as Breakfast After the Bell programs.
Getting traditional breakfast served in the cafeteria before the start of the school day can be a challenge for some youth. The Breakfast After the Bell program provides a convenient way for students to get breakfast which means more students are starting their day off eating a nutritious meal.
The new program utilizes a model called Grab & Go and gives Azalea Gardens Middle School students the option to pick up breakfast from the cafeteria or a mobile cart and eat during the first period.
No Kid Hungry Virginia distributed a total of $32,091.83 in grants across the following five Virginia schools:
- George Washington Middle School, Alexandria City Public Schools – $11,004.83
- Galax Middle School, Galax City Public Schools – $5,000
- Patrick County High School, Patrick County Public Schools – $5,600
- Prince Edward County High School, Prince Edward County Public Schools – $6,000
- Azalea Gardens Middle School, Norfolk Public Schools – $4,487
“We’re excited these secondary schools are beginning or expanding Breakfast After the Bell programs,” said Claire Mansfield, No Kid Hungry Virginia state director. “These breakfast programs are important for Virginia’s youth. We know expanding access to breakfast helps improve classroom performance, attendance and promotes healthy habits among students.”
Over 1,000 Virginia schools have Breakfast After the Bell programs.
Click here to learn more about the program.
