Let's Eat Healthy! Rachael Ray Goes to Washington
Ms. Ray Goes to Washington
Rachael visits our nation's capitol to encourage lawmakers to fight for better school lunches. "To me, the health of our children is the most important issue we're facing today, both as families and as a country," Rachael says.
Making a Difference
"To start, we all have to be loudmouths," Rachael says. "I travel to Washington, D.C., to discuss these topics with members of Congress, but you can effect real change in your own community."
Encouraging Change
Rachael gets ready to meet with key legislators who can help pass the Child Nutrition Act, which would provide your schools with more money to purchase the fresh, healthy foods you serve at home. "Through my work with Yum-o!, I've learned that kids are willing to change -- we just need to give them the chance," Rachael says.
With Senator Casey
Rachael talks with Senator Robert J. Casey of Pennsylvania.
With Senator Harkin
Rachael meets with Senator Tom Harkin of Iowa.
With Senator Gillibrand
Rachael speaks out with Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand of New York, right.
Head of the Class
Rachael visits a local D.C. school to help change the way today's generation thinks about food. "Grown-ups can talk all day about it, but who cares? Nothing's going to happen unless young people become part of the process, and adults respect them enough to hear their ideas," says Rachael.
Getting kids excited
Rachael sits with Senator Gillibrand in a D.C. classroom. "The only way to make real, meaningful social change to get kids eating better is to get your children excited about becoming healthier," Rachael says.
Get involved!
Rachael talks to kids about eating healthy in the cafeteria. The School Nutrition Association suggests parents get involved by asking the school for permission to visit the cafeteria and try the food. You can introduce yourself to the nutrition staff, and ask them any questions about ingredients or preparation.
Encourage your kids
Rachael visits kids to get them interested in what they're eating. How you can help: Review the school cafeteria menu with your children and encourage them to try healthy foods. Nearly every district offers fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
Time for lunch
We ate lunch with a class of fifth-graders at P.S. 151 in Queens, New York, who were trying Rachael's Cheesy Mac 'n' Trees. "It reminds me of the mac 'n' cheese you buy in the supermarket, but this one is healthy, and it actually tastes better!" says student Carolyn (left).
