By Kori Sciandra, CJ Country Record Editor
Supporting the natural choice for a healthy lifestyle, Milk for Health works to help dairy farmers bridge the gap with patrons by educating the public.
As Milk for Health celebrates its 76th year commitment to the New York Dairy Industry, the organization continues to work toward its goal to connect with consumers. The organization, comprised of western NY dairy farmers, amplifies the importance of dairy nutrition and family farm practices.
Led by Tonya Van Slyke, Milk for Health executive director, the organization’s focus is to demonstrate that dairy foods are a healthy choice, packed with 13 essential vitamins and minerals.
“We strive to build trusted relationships through our multi-layered programming and messaging,” said Van Slyke.
Through the assistance of school and community programs, Milk for Health provides dairy-based snacks such as yogurt parfaits, yogurt and milk smoothies, milk punch, and milk shakes for special occasions. They host milk tastings to demonstrate whole milk compared to skim milk while explaining the difference between whole, 2 percent, 1 percent and skim milk.
The organization works with area schools in the GLOW region, the Niagara Frontier and surrounding areas. As they expand, they continue to represent farms in neighboring counties as well.
“WNY is home to amazing dairy farm families. We are also home to dairy processors, which process milk, cheese, ice cream, and other healthy dairy products. Milk for Health’s role is to help share the benefits of dairy in the diet and share our farm stories with the public,” said Van Slyke. “This is done through farmers volunteering at programs across the region, staff participating in school events…and our boots-on-the-ground approach to participating in community activities and bringing dairy snacks to the events.”
This month, Milk for Health will serve milk or smoothies at school Olympics and end-of-year events during school programs, including farm tours with school programs. From Buffalo to Olcott, the organization will be featuring delicious, locally made, milk throughout the region.
Catch them at Explore & More Museum on Canalside in Buffalo on June 6 and Dairy Day at Olcott Park June 13, which will feature a magic show and interactive activities.
Farmers display deep proficiency in their field of knowledge, and they are involved in their communities. They often double as leaders in local government, sit on boards as directors and serve as volunteers for other organizations.
Van Slyke noted, farmers are seen as “stewards of the land” and are considered a vital component to our region and the success of the economy.
“The dairy industry is a staple of our communities in WNY. Dairy farms not only produce wholesome milk that goes onto our local processors, making delicious dairy products, but we also give back in many other ways,” said Van Slyke. “Dairy farms provide jobs/career opportunities not only on our farms, but with other businesses that support our farms.”
Dairy farms often collaborate with tractor dealerships, milk haulers, farm and parlor maintenance, feed companies, veterinary practices, hoof trimmers, nutrient and crop consultants, dairy processing and more.
“We also support local businesses such as schools, stores, restaurants, repair shops, and supply companies,” she said.
Milk for Health will be out in the community all summer long. For more information or to volunteer, email info@milkforhealth.org.