About the Office of Nutrition and Food Services

The Office of Nutrition and Food Services (ONFS) is responsible for providing safe and nutritious meals to the youth housed in DJJ facilities. DJJ participates in the National School Lunch Program, the School Breakfast Program, and the Wellness Program regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Food service teams follow menus that are planned and analyzed by a registered and licensed dietitian, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and three snacks daily. The meals and snacks provide approximately 3,000 calories per day based on the Recommended Daily Allowances and Dietary Reference Intakes. 

This office is committed to assisting in the growth and development of all youth. This commitment is supported by the provision of healthy foods that supply nutrients and fluids necessary for proper growth and development. ONFS is an important part of DJJ’s efforts to increase youth awareness regarding long-term healthy food choices and fitness.

Food and Nutrition Services supports:

  • Use of locally grown items and farm to school efforts. ONFS procures locally grown items when available, indicates locally grown items on the menu, and participates in Harvest of the Month.
  • Participation in the USDA Wellness program by providing a healthy afterschool snack during a wellness lesson.
  • Providing staff training and technical support in food safety, sanitation, documentation, and more.

Awards:

  • 2021 Turnip the Beet, Gold Level Award Recipient
  • SY18-19 Golden Radish Honorary Award Recipient
  • SY17-18 Golden Radish Honorary Award Recipient

Grants:

  • SY19-20 USDA Farm to School Planning Grant Recipient
  • 2019 Gro More Good Hydro for Hunger Grant Recipient
  • SY18-19 SHAPE Grant
  • 2018 Georgia School Nutrition Foundation Garden Grant
  • 2018 USDA Equipment Grant

 

USDA Non-Discrimination Statement

In accordance with federal civil rights law and USDA civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.