The Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 directed the USDA to establish nutrition standards for all foods and beverages sold to students in school during the school day, including foods sold through school fundraisers. The new Smart Snacks in School Nutrition standards will require schools to offer healthy choices for a-la-carte sales, in school stores, and in vending machines, by offering students more of the foods and beverages we should be encouraging – whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, leaner protein, lower-fat dairy – while limiting foods with too much sugar, fat, and salt.

USDA understands that fundraisers are time-honored traditions that support local school activities, including class trips, athletic programs, and the purchase of school supplies. Under the “Smart Snacks in School” nutrition standards, USDA has sought to balance the needs of schools to conduct occasional fundraisers, while still ensuring that students have access to healthier foods and beverages during the school day.

The standards provide a special exemption for infrequent fundraisers that do not meet the nutrition standards. Each state sets limits. Georgia has set a maximum of thirty (30) exempt fundraisers, per school, per school year, lasting no more than three days, to be allowed for schools participating in the National School Lunch Program in Georgia. Fundraisers may not operate 30 minutes prior to meal service, as well as 30 minutes after meal service, anywhere on the school campus. As a reminder, items requested for exemptions do not require approval.

Send completed forms to the School Nutrition Department. You may also direct any questions or concerns to:

Fayette County School Nutrition Program
205 LaFayette Avenue
Fayetteville, GA 30214
770.460.3535 x. 1061