Oct. 2—When Acel Charter High School, in Fresno, Calif., was told by their food service provider that the company is not interested in servicing small schools anymore, it left them having to think outside the lunchbox.
Acel board member Scarlett Noguera said she had attended a luncheon served by Fresno Organic, a local health food restaurant that also grows their own fruits and vegetables. She found the food to be remarkably delicious and noticed how it filled her up much more readily than other foods. That full feeling gave her the idea that her school's students could use that feeling as well.
"My love is about small businesses and creating synergies between organizations in Fresno." said Noguera. She believes supporting the small business - owned by Tara Hamilton and her husband - is good for the school and good for the community. It's also more affordable since Fresno Organic is willing to provide the meals practically at cost since Acel only get $3 per meal from the state.