WEST ALLIS, Wis. — The Hunger Task Force is known for providing food to people in need and keeping local emergency food pantries and meal programs fully stocked to prevent people from going hungry.

But there’s another role the organization takes on that few people know about. The Hunger Task Force visits into local schools to teach about healthy eating and budget-conscious cooking.

Through the program, known as SNAP-ED, a school nutrition coordinator travels to Milwaukee-area public schools teaching healthy eating and cooking habits.

Ashley Best helps lead the program.

“The whole goal of the Hunger Task Force education program is to instill those beliefs and healthy habits for kids, and the whole goal is to reduce the obesity rate for children under 18,” she said.

Horace Mann Elementary School in West Allis, Wis., participates in SNAP-ED. SNAP-ED has reached 1,450 students at nine schools. 

Fifth-grade teacher David Hellrung said it has been great for his students.

“The healthier they’re eating, the healthier they’re feeling,” said Hellrung. “The more awake they are in the morning. The more they are willing to, you know, suffer through tough tests. If they’re feeling good, they are less grumpy and get along with each other. Having this healthy part of their lives just makes them a fuller, better, healthier person.”

The students get to take home cookbooks and budget-friendly, healthy recipes to make at home with their families.

“You do see them eating healthier and you hear stories of how they’re trying different recipes with their families,” said Hellrung. “I love how the program doesn’t just stop at them. It continues to their families.”

The SNAP-ED program also offers field trips in the spring to the Hunger Task Force Farm, where kids can learn how to grow fruits and vegetables.

For more information on the program, including recipes and learning opportunities, Wisconsinites can reach out to Hunger Task Force by emailing nutrition@hungertaskforce.org.