The Michigan 10 Cents a Meal for Michigan’s Kids & Farms Grant is a state-funded initiative that provides schools with matching funds to purchase and serve locally grown fruits, vegetables, and legumes. This grant supports Michigan’s agricultural economy while encouraging healthy, seasonal eating among students. By increasing students' access to fresh, local produce, the program fosters an appreciation for locally sourced foods and helps build healthy eating habits.

The New Haven School District has been awarded this valuable grant, allowing it to serve more Michigan-grown produce in its cafeterias. Through this program, students can experience the taste and quality of local foods while learning about the importance of supporting regional farms. This grant enriches the school’s meal offerings and strengthens the connection between Michigan agriculture and the community.

New Haven Community Schools District has transformed its meal program through a dedicated partnership with Southwest Foodservice Excellence (SFE), focusing on bringing fresh, homemade food options directly to its students. This collaboration has introduced a variety of wholesome, made-from-scratch meals that prioritize quality ingredients, nutritional value, and great taste. By moving away from processed options and integrating freshly prepared dishes, the district is ensuring that students have access to balanced, nutrient-rich foods that fuel their learning and growth.

Through SFE's guidance, New Haven Community Schools District has also been able to expand its offerings to include more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, aligning with their mission to promote healthier eating habits. Students are now able to enjoy a rotating menu that includes locally inspired flavors, culturally diverse dishes, and seasonal produce, making the cafeteria experience more enjoyable and educational. This partnership with SFE not only enhances the quality of meals but also supports the district’s commitment to fostering lifelong healthy eating habits among its students.

The Annual Welcome Back Breakfast for New Haven Community Schools was held on August 27, 2024, at the welcoming Endeavor Middle School. This much-anticipated event, beautifully catered by SFE, featured a delightful All-American Breakfast that brought the community together in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Educators, staff, and community members shared a morning filled with connection, camaraderie, and the joy of starting a new school year on a positive note. The highlight of the event was an inspiring keynote address by renowned educator and author Chase Mielke, who captivated the audience with his insights and enthusiasm, leaving everyone motivated and ready for the exciting year ahead.

Please make note of the following information:

For the 2024-25 school year, all meals are provided at no cost; however, additional education benefits are extended to the district, individual school buildings, or households, contingent upon the determination of an individual student benefit (free, reduced, paid) on an annual basis.

We request that each family complete and submit either the School Meal Application or the Education Benefits Form (previously known as the Household Information Report). The information collected serves to facilitate access to supplementary services and benefits beyond provision of meals to include resources for classrooms, educators, and students, guidance and college counselors, as well as health and wellness services. Summer EBT benefits are also accessible to eligible households. To ascertain the specific form required, we encourage you to communicate with your respective school.

We urge you to work with your school's administration promptly regarding the submission of school meal forms.

This year, Michigan is taking a significant step forward in supporting our students by offering free breakfast to all, ensuring every child starts their day nourished and ready to learn. New Haven Community Schools is proudly participating in this initiative, making sure that no student starts their day on an empty stomach. By joining this statewide program, New Haven Community Schools is not only promoting better academic performance but also fostering equality, ensuring that every child has the energy and focus needed to thrive in the classroom. Let's celebrate this positive change and the bright future it promises for our students and our community! Breakfast will be available for the students at each one of our schools!

The New Haven Community School District has embarked on an exciting new partnership with Southwest Food Service Excellence LLC (SFE).

A world where all children look forward to eating at school—and are fully nourished to reach their highest potential.

Is to “Put Child Nutrition First” by building custom, financially healthy K-12 foodservice partnerships.