Very Rev. Jamin S. David, J.C.L., V.G. | Diocese of Baton Rouge

Heather Blades, a purchasing assistant for the Diocese of Baton Rouge Child Nutrition Program, recently received the prestigious Josephine Martin National Policy Fellow 2024 Scholarship Award from the non-profit School Nutrition Foundation. Heather's dedication to ensuring students receive nutritious meals was further fueled by her attendance at the School Nutrition Association’s 52nd Legislative Action Conference in Washington, D.C.

During the conference, Heather and her colleagues discussed the importance of free meals for all students with Louisiana’s congressional delegation on Capitol Hill. Heather shared her passion for providing nutritious meals, stating, "We all love feeding kids the most nutritious meals possible." She encouraged parents to engage with legislators, emphasizing the impact of their stories on ensuring children are adequately fed.

Heather's experience in both private and public sector child nutrition programs has given her a unique perspective on the financial struggles families face and the positive impact of free school meals. She is committed to advocating for child nutrition programs and implementing strategies learned at the conference to better serve the students and families in the diocesan Child Nutrition Program.

Heather Blades' dedication and advocacy for child nutrition highlight the crucial role individuals can play in ensuring children have access to the nourishment they need to thrive.