Executive Update
Keeping Politics Off The Lunch Tray Continued from page 10
Sourcing American Products: Economic Impact and Consumer Demand
equipment needs to ensure your program remains financially sustainable. Know Your Food Costs It is essential to understand your food expenses across various categories such as dairy, produce, proteins,
and staples for effec- tive budget manage- ment. By tracking your monthly spending in these areas, you can identify seasonal
price fluctuations and potential opportunities for bulk buying. Keeping detailed records of your food
The Child Nutrition program provides an opportunity for U.S. farmers, encouraging schools to prioritize American products whenever possible. Research shows that 82% of consumers in 2023 prefer U.S.-made items. By supporting domestic manufactur- ing, we’re supporting over 13.1 million jobs while strengthening the American econ- omy. Each dollar spent on American-made goods generates $2.68 in economic activity through the supply chain. We encourage continued support for this initiative. Know Where Your Revenue Comes From If changes are proposed regarding meal reimbursements or alternative payment methods, you will need to quickly make projections and plans based on whether the changes result in more or less fund- ing. Additionally, if rules and regulations will positively or negatively impact your participation, it is also essential to plan for those outcomes. Consider creating financial scenarios that account for variations in meal counts, staffing adjustments, and potential
costs will help you anticipate changes, adjust to program modifications, and make informed decisions about menu planning. Consider using a digital tracking system to monitor your expenses, which will promote fiscal responsibility and program sustainability when food costs or guidelines change. Keep Yourself Informed Subscribe to local politicians’ newsletters to stay informed about legislation. Our students depend on us every day, no matter the political landscape. Let’s be proactive and engaged to ensure our programs adapt and thrive for their success. Together, we can make a meaningful impact.
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