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I was appalled at the pictures on the Oct. 25 front page of the Minnesota Star Tribune and the accompanying article “Breakfast is free, but far from easy.” The breakfast offered to our young children only appears to be contributing to the obesity and prediabetes epidemic that is jeopardizing the future of our youngest citizens. In addition, sugary cereals and highly processed food, with its additives and preservatives, have been well documented to increase hyperactivity and decrease focus. This is not serving our teachers well, either.
The price tag of $480 million over two years will only continue to grow as food prices rise. I offer a different, more healthy solution. First of all, let’s start a new program to include only those families that qualify based on financial need. Why should all Minnesota taxpayers be on the hook for families that can afford breakfast for their own children? Now let’s take that $480 million and invest in our existing food shelf system. Food shelves already do a great job of food rescue partnership with grocery stores but to my understanding could use additional funding to purchase more protein-rich items, e.g. eggs, meat, cheese, etc., and additional fresh produce as needed. Travel vouchers would be included as necessary.
This new program would remove breakfast at school and address the core problem of food insecurity at home for parents and children who need it. If these children don’t have healthy food on the breakfast table, there is a good chance that the parents don’t either.
I realize for some, this version of free breakfast for all at school is a matter of convenience. And yet, as parents we take on the responsibility of feeding, clothing and teaching personal care to our children. Parents have had owned this task for thousands of years. Let’s help equip parents who need food assistance to obtain quality food from the food shelf system. Everyone will be healthier for it.
Tim Rubash, Apple Valley
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