Fundraising

The Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards apply to any foods sold to students during the school day on the school campus, including foods sold as fundraisers. Follow the tips below to start raising funds the healthy way, in compliance with Smart Snacks standards. 

 

5 Steps to Healthy Fundraising

 

Step 1: Know Your Wellness Policy 

A strong wellness policy is an important tool for implementing healthy fundraising in your school or district. 

What does your local wellness policy say about in-school fundraising? What about fundraising that occurs after school? Does it address fundraising that occurs during evenings and weekends? 

If you need to update your local wellness policy, check out Healthier Generation’s Model Wellness Policy template, which was approved by the USDA, to make healthy fundraising the standard for students in your district. 

 

Step 2: Provide Alternatives 

Your students and staff will never miss their unhealthy fundraising options if you make sure to offer plenty of fun alternatives. Try these alternative fundraising ideas.

 

Step 3: Engage Kids 

Remember to involve your customers in the process. Do they have ideas for out-of-the-box fundraisers? Encourage them to research viable fundraising options that meet the needs of your school.  

 

Step 4: Spread the Word 

Be sure to communicate your fundraising policy to everyone – including staff, students, and parents. Announce the new policy when it’s adopted and send reminders throughout the school year that fundraisers should center around non-food activities or only foods and beverages that meet Smart Snacks standards.  

Spread the word about healthy fundraisers using the following tools: 

  • Student/staff/parent handbooks 

  • Intercom or email announcements 

  • Parent newsletters 

  • Staff memos 

  • Student newspaper 

  • School websites or social media accounts 

  • Staff or student orientation or open house nights  

 

Step 5: Ask for Help 

You don’t have to re-invent the wheel. Use the resources and support available to you through the Healthy Schools Program and in the Healthier Generation Resource Center.

 

Next Step:

Now you’re ready to tackle healthy celebrations!