CalFresh Healthy Living (SNAP-Ed) supports healthy, active and nourished lifestyles by teaching Californians about good nutrition and how to stretch their food dollars, while also building partnerships in communities to make the healthy choice, the easy choice.

CalFresh (formerly known as food stamps) helps individuals and families purchase healthy food by providing a monthly stipend on an EBT card which can be used in grocery stores, online, and at some farmers’ markets. Apply online in as little as 10 minutes at GetCalFresh.org. For other low cost or free food options, visit our Food Assistance page. 

Local School Wellness Policies (LWPs) are a tool schools use to create a culture of health where kids are ready to learn. A LWP is required for most school districts, and must address how each school will implement nutrition, physical activity, and other health related programs and activities. LWP Fact Sheet, LWP 101 for Parents, Wellness Policy Overview – USDA 

Because many children consume more than half their daily calories at school, schools are in a unique position to promote healthy eating. Improved nutrition in schools can lead to better attention and focus, improved test scores, better classroom behavior, and a better understanding of healthy eating behaviors. Students that participate in the School Breakfast Program tend to have higher grades and standardized test scores, reduced absenteeism, and improved cognitive performance.  Video: Closing the Achievement Gap with Breakfast in the Classroom

All kids should be getting at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. Local school wellness policies set goals related to physical activity: from brain breaks in the classroom to requirements for physical education. Students who are physically active tend to have better grades, school attendance, cognitive performance, and classroom behaviors. View Physical Fitness Data for 5th Graders in SLO County, Guides to Supporting Physical Activity Before, During, and After school

School gardens are living classrooms where students develop a passion for produce and connect with nutrition, math, and science in a tangible way. Studies show that garden-enhanced nutrition education can significantly increase children’s consumption of fruits and vegetables, leading to improved health and academic achievement. Fact Sheet: Nature Improves Academic Outcomes, Local Resource – One Cool Earth, Local Resource – UC Cooperative Extension, Local Resource – City Farm SLO 

Yes, schools are perfectly positioned to support the social and emotional well-being of students. When supportive resources are in place, students have fewer disciplinary issues, improved communication skills, and improved academic outcomes. Supportive social and emotional environments translate to healthier, more successful students and communities. Student mental health is reported by staff as a problem in 85.9% of high schools in San Luis Obispo County. Trauma-informed Practices and Policies, Social & Emotional Learning Resources, Mindfulness Resources for the Classroom

The County lists local school wellness policies on our School Wellness page. 

To request a nutrition presentation or food demonstration, call the Health Promotion Office at (805) 781-5564.

To inquire about volunteer opportunities, call (805) 781-5564.

Harvest of the Month features ready-to-go tools and resources that can be used in diverse applications to support healthy eating and daily physical activity. 
 
USDA’s MyPlate offers ideas and tips to help you create a healthier eating style that meets your individual needs and improves your health.
 
The ReThink Your Drink campaign provides posters and guidance on choosing beverage options that don’t include added sugars.
 
Champions for Change provides information on eating healthy, moving more, and drinking fewer sugary drinks.

EatFresh provides healthy recipes, meal plans, and nutrition education. A dietitian is available to answer questions.