Yesterday, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and his wife Christie joined the National WIC Association (NWA) and Sesame Workshop in announcing a partnership to promote healthy eating to children and their families and encourage them to make healthy habits a part of their daily routines.

The "Healthy Habits for Life" program focuses on fresh fruits and vegetables and encourages kids to "Eat a Rainbow!," stressing the healthful benefits of colorful fruits and vegetables.  The program also reminds kids that "Every Day is an Any Time Food Day!," encouraging children to eat nutritious and delicious vegetables, fruits, and whole grains anytime.

The partnership was announced at the 19th Annual NWA Leadership Conference in Washington this week, where United's Dr. Lorelei DiSogra worked with the 200-plus state and local WIC leaders on implementing the new WIC fruit and vegetable vouchers in coming months.  With New York and Delaware the first states to have launched the program, officials reported that 70% of the new vouchers are being redeemed for fresh fruits and vegetables.

For more information on the program, contact United Fresh vice president of nutrition and health, Dr. Lorelei DiSogra at 202-303-3400.