Fresh Juice Distribution Program
- Production and distribution of free fruit and vegetable juice
- Delivered to school food pantries, community pantries, and shelters
- Seasonal recipes using fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients
- Packaging designed for safe, easy storage and distribution
33%
Many Coloradans lack reliable access to nutritious food.
Hunger Free Colorado, COVID Food Insecurity Survey, April 2021
16%
Of Colorado children, many are not receiving adequate nutrition due to financial constraints.
Hunger Free Colorado, COVID Food Insecurity Survey, April 2021
20%
of adults reported regularly cutting back or skipping meals because they lacked sufficient funds to purchase food.
Hunger Free Colorado, COVID Food Insecurity Survey, April 2021
6%
Older adults in Colorado face hunger, forcing them to choose between purchasing groceries or medicine.
James Zlick and Craig Gunderson, The State of Senior Hunger in America 2018: An Annual Report, May 2020
9.3%
Many Coloradans struggle financially, living below the federal poverty line.
U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey: Poverty, September 2019
School Nutrition Support
- Tasty juice provided to schools serving food-insecure students
- Supplement to breakfast, lunch, and after-school programs
- Focus on improving daily nutrient intake for children
Nutrition Access & Equity
Increase access to nutritious foods for all students, particularly those experiencing food insecurity.
Aligned Metrics:
- 100% of participating school pantries receive fresh fruit and vegetable juice at no cost
- 10–20 schools served annually during Year 1
- 15,000–20,000 juice bottles distributed through school-based pantries
- Juice provided outside of reimbursable meal programs to supplement access
Outcome: Improved access to nutrient-dense foods for students who may lack consistent availability of fruits and vegetables at home.
Nutrition Quality Standards
Wellness Policy Goal: Promote foods and beverages that support student health and align with nutrition guidelines.
Aligned Metrics:
- 100% juice products contain only fruits and vegetables
- 0 grams added sugar per serving
- No artificial ingredients or preservatives
- Clear ingredient labeling for transparency
Outcome: Better nutritional support contributes to improved concentration, attendance, and overall student well-being.
Student Health & Academic Readiness
Support student health, energy levels, and readiness to learn.
Aligned Metrics:
- 1–2 servings of fruits and vegetables delivered per juice bottle
- 60%+ of school partners report juice supports student energy and focus
- Distribution timed to support breakfast programs, after-school programs, or pantry access
Outcome: Better nutritional support contributes to improved concentration, attendance, and overall student well-being.
Nutrition Education & Awareness
Promote nutrition education that reinforces healthy choices.
Aligned Metrics:
- Age-appropriate nutrition materials distributed with juice
- Materials aligned with district wellness messaging
- 75% of school partners rate materials as helpful or very helpful
Outcome: Students and families gain greater awareness of fruit and vegetable benefits in an accessible, non-stigmatizing way.
Family & Community Engagement
Wellness Policy Goal: Encourage family, school, and community partnerships to support student wellness.
Aligned Metrics:
- Partnerships established with school food pantries and wellness coordinators
- Quarterly communication with school contacts
- Opportunities for family-facing distribution through pantry events
Outcome: Stronger school-community collaboration supporting child wellness.
Food Safety & Compliance
Ensure all foods provided on campus meet safety and handling requirements.
Aligned Metrics:
- 100% compliance with local health department regulations
- Proper cold storage and transport documented
- Zero food safety incidents
Outcome: Safe, compliant food distribution that protects students and schools.
Program Accountability & Reporting
Monitor and evaluate wellness initiatives for effectiveness and compliance.
Aligned Metrics:
- Annual summary of juice distribution provided to district partners
- Quantitative data: bottles distributed, students reached, schools served
- Qualitative feedback from school staff and pantry coordinators
Outcome: Transparent reporting supports district wellness assessments and continuous improvement.
