“Color Me Healthy” summer produce program brought a celebration of nutritious food, creativity, and community collaboration to summer camp, wrapping up at the Rockbridge Area YMCA camp on July 21.
Now in its seventh year, the initiative offers local children hands-on nutrition education, engaging activities, and fresh produce to enjoy at home. This year’s partners included the Rockbridge Area Relief Association (RARA), Virginia Cooperative Extension, Campus Kitchen at Washington and Lee University, and Live Healthy Rockbridge Kids.
“Color Me Healthy” is a six-week program that encourages healthy eating habits by combining interactive lessons with fresh food access. Each week, over 60 YMCA campers participated in activities such as making fruit- and vegetable-infused waters, trying colorful bell peppers, and exploring seasonal produce at a mini farmers market.
‘“Color Me Healthy’ is a fantastic program, offering the opportunity for children to explore new foods, learn about healthy heating, and have fun while doing it,” said Ryan Brink, Campus Kitchen coordinator.
Over the course of the program, RARA distributed about 3,000 pounds of fruits and vegetables for families to take home and enjoy together.
“Seeing kids light up as they pick out new fruits and vegetables to try is exactly why this program exists,” said Shadrey Sands, RARA Neighborhood Grocery manager. “We look forward to continuing it again next year.”
