DPS knows that healthy eating helps to create healthy minds. The Office of Food Services is committed to supporting the educational development of our students by providing healthy breakfasts and hot and nutritional lunches to all students in grades K-12 receive at no charge in an effort to ensure all children receive nutritional meals, regardless of income. On-site preparation ensures that meals are served hot in compliance with Federal, State and local Health Department regulations. All menus adhere to the guidelines of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Detroit Public Schools was the first school district in the country to make available the free Universal Breakfast available to all students. The breakfast meals are served at the beginning of the school day either in the classroom or the lunchroom. Numerous studies continue to show a direct correlation between eating breakfast and improved learning and overall student performance. In a 2010 report issued by Food Research Action Committee, DPS ranked # 2 in the nation for feeding the largest percent of at risk students.
Lunch Programs /Heat & Serve meals
DPS provides free fresh cooked food items to all students in grades k-12 through our Heat & Serve program, where meals are heated, served fresh and hot on site to students in every school. Our menus include a healthy array of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole wheat /whole grain breads and pizza, lower fat and sodium meat/meat alternate options (Turkey Burgers, Turkey Meatballs, Grilled Chicken), 100% fruit juices, and 1% or Fat free milk.
Supper Programs
DPS offers free healthy “At Risk After School Supper Programs” throughout the district, in support of afterschool tutorial and enrichment programs.
Farm to School
The Farm to School program is collaboration between the Office of Food Services and the local farming community and is currently offered at 43 schools.
Each month local farmers are identified by the Office of Food Services to deliver fresh fruits and or vegetables to each of the 43 schools in an effort to support Michigan based farmers as well as increase student exposure to fresh foods.
In addition to the delivery of fresh fruits and vegetables the program delivers additional benefits:
