³ÉÈ˶¶Òõ

SALISBURY, MD---Nutritionists say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. For Salisbury University’s Lower Shore Child Care Resources Center (LSCCRC), it’s one of the most important meals this year.

The center recently was selected as one of 50 participants in the Champions of Healthy Kids Grant Program. The $10,000 grant is offered by the General Mills Foundation, part of the breakfast cereal giant General Mills, in partnership with the American Dietetic Association Foundation and the President’s Challenge.

Funding is designed to support innovative programs that equip children with the tools they need to live healthy, balanced and active lives. More than 1,300 programs applied for the grant this year.

“Locally, we will use the grant to provide training to the child care community in ways to help keep young children active and healthy and eating right,” said Karen Goldman, LSCCRC director. “We will provide the child care community with the tools and education to help improve the lives of our young children.”

The center will work in conjunction with the community organization Healthy U. Delmarva, as well as a local registered dietitian and a physical education teacher.   Four local child care agencies have been selected to pilot the program: St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Pocomoke City, MD; Little Lambs Daycare in Berlin, MD; and Guardian Angel Learning Center and Peninsula Regional Medical Center Child Care in Salisbury. Participating agencies receive assistance with menu planning and physical education training for staff.

Child care providers are invited to attend the Healthy Kids training. For more information about the center and the Healthy Kids Program call 410-543-6650.