The Turnip the Beet Award recognizes outstanding summer meal sponsors nationwide who provide children with appetizing, appealing, and nutritious meals when school is out. This year, the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) received the coveted award for its dedication to reaching vulnerable communities through its mobile meal service.
In 2025, DPR served approximately 118,000 meals across 47 sites, including recreation centers, outdoor pools, parks, and 16 unaffiliated community locations such as neighborhoods and libraries. During the 2024–2025 school year, nearly 175,000 dinner meals and snacks were served to afterschool participants.
“Summer meal programs are more than just food service; they bridge the gap when school is out, ensuring children have the nourishment they need to grow, learn, and thrive year-round,” said DPR Operations Director, Shelby Beverly.
The Turnip the Beet Award aligns with USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins’ priorities to connect America’s farmers with nutrition assistance programs while encouraging healthier food choices and outcomes for families.
Innovative Approaches to Nutrition
DPR continues to innovate meal planning with locally sourced foods and programming designed to fight food insecurity. Last summer, the department launched the “Plates at the Park” initiative to teach children how to prepare healthy meals at home. Nutrition Program staff led weekly, hands-on cooking activities in parks across Atlanta, drawing more than 500 youth to meal prep demonstrations.
From Meals to Life Skills
The program goes beyond teaching how to use measuring cups or cutting boards. Children—many with limited access to fresh food—learned how to prepare affordable, healthy meals using ingredients they often recognize at home. From rainbow veggies and chicken quesadillas to fruit smoothies and whole-grain grilled cheese, the recipes are designed to be culturally relevant, simple, and fun.
Recreation staff report that children who once dismissed vegetables are now excited to try spinach and Greek yogurt. Many participants ask for “Plates at the Park” to return to their sites again.
Looking Ahead
“We are honored to be recipients of the Turnip the Beet Award,” Beverly said. “DPR looks forward to partnering with local, state, and federal agencies in the future to expand our efforts to provide healthy and nutritious meals to Atlanta’s youth.”
Through recognition like the Turnip the Beet Award and programs like “Plates at the Park,” DPR continues to strengthen its mission: ensuring Atlanta’s children not only receive nourishing meals but also gain the knowledge and confidence to build healthy habits for life.
