www.farmtoschoolmonth.org
The month of October has many daily, weekly, and monthly observances for raising awareness. Most famously October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and we love that they have a section of their website dedicated to healthy recipes for readers. Parents, students, and school food professionals also have reason to celebrate in October, because October is now Farm to School Month! Farm to school month celebrates the growing importance of farm-to-school programs in childhood nutrition, as well as a way to support farming, ranching, and local economies. For more information check out the official Farm-to-School website and find contacts, partners, resources, and activities for your school.
Other observances in food, health, and hunger for October include:
- Vegetarian Day (October 1) and World Vegetarian Month: October is dedicated to raising awareness of vegetarianism. You don’t have to become a vegetarian to celebrate, and these recognitions are great opportunities to learn more about the vegetarian lifestyle–and to find some meatless recipes. The new meal patterns put a heavy emphasis on increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables, so take advantage of vegetarian websites and resources to find information about fruit and veggie-heavy meals.
- October 3 was Child Health Day and October is Children’s Health Month: Helping to highlight all of the ways we can make the world we live in healthier for our children, and their children.
- October is Family Health Month: Healthy families, healthy children! October is Healthy Family Month–check out this great 31 Days to Healthier Kids (PDF) calendar from SparkPeople.com.
- October 16 is World Food Day: This worldwide event designed to increase awareness, understanding, and informed, year-round action to alleviate hunger. Find events in your area, find resources, and learn more about World Food Day.