Local Programs Recognized for Outstanding Meal Quality and Educational Impact
Seven North Carolina sponsors of Summer Nutrition Programs have been recognized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) with the prestigious Turnip the Beet Awards for 2024, highlighting their exceptional commitment to providing high-quality meals and educational enrichment to children during summer months, recognized in 2025.
Award Recipients by Category
Gold Award Winners
- Boys and Girls Club of Wake County
- Halifax County Schools
Silver Award Winners
- Catawba County Schools
- Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina
- YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina
Bronze Award Winners
- Beaufort County Schools
- Elizabeth-City Pasquotank Public Schools
National Recognition Program
The Turnip the Beet Awards recognize outstanding Summer Nutrition Program sponsors nationwide who demonstrate excellence in three key areas: offering appetizing and nutritious meals, incorporating fresh locally grown foods, and engaging students in educational activities. This year, 199 sponsors across the nation qualified for gold, silver, or bronze recognition.
Award recipients receive certificates and banners to display in recognition of their efforts to combat childhood food insecurity during summer months.
Addressing Critical Need
Summer meals play a vital role in supporting millions of young Americans whose risk for food insecurity increases during summer break when school meal programs are unavailable. The Summer Nutrition Programs help bridge this gap by providing nutritious meals that support children’s growth and development while ensuring they remain healthy and ready to learn when school resumes in the fall.
State Administration
The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s Office of School Nutrition serves as the state agency administering multiple federal nutrition programs, including the School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, Special Milk Program, After School Snack Program, and Summer Nutrition (SUN Meal) Programs, all with federal assistance from the USDA.
For more information about the Turnip the Beet Awards and to view the complete list of national recipients, visit the USDA website. Additional details regarding School and Summer Nutrition Programs in North Carolina are available on the Office of School Nutrition website.
