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Show Outlook 'Optimistic' For School Lunch Program in Nation During the 1981-82 school year, more than 33 million lunches were served to students in public and private schools and in child care institutions in Utah. The availability of school lunch has been threatened with federal budget cuts in the past, but the importance of nutrition to growing bodies and minds has been recognized on the congressional scene and considerable support for the program has accelerated, reports H. H. Winawer, State Coordinator Director of Child Nutrition Programs at the State Office of Education. Child Nutrition Programs have provided leaderhsip both in Utah and nationwide in regulatory reform, including a nationally recognized public relations and awareness program promoting "Child Nutrition ... a Growing Experience." Winawer has presented material to senators and congressmen relating to funding for, and structure of, the Child Nutrition Programs and has teen involved in authoring articles of national publciations targeting student nutritional needs in schools and institutions. "The immediate outlook for the Child Nutrition Programs is optimistic," said Winawer. "When budget cuts loomed last year, a unified effort was made by State Nutrition Directors to educate the congress on the importance of well-rounded nutrition for students. The coordinated venture was successful. Not only was the funding sustained for the new fiscal year, but a cost-of-living adjustment was granted," added Winawer. This school year the average student price for school lunches is 75c per lunch for elementary youngsters and 85c for secondary students. Lower middle income students pay 40c and students from low income families receive free lunches. Parents desiring information and assistance on school lunch should contact the office of their principal. Although generally optimistic in his feelings about the status of child nutrition funding in the future, Winawer expressed concerns about sustaining adequate funding levels, visa-vis New Federalism (turning back programs to the states). Winawer concluded that the challenges facing Child Nutrition Programs are significant, but he is confidant that the unified thrust of all the states, as well as local programs, will assure continued availability of good nutrition for growing youngsters. |