You’ve confronted your excuses, and now it’s time to buck up and apply for that grant—but what should you say in your submission? School Nutrition asked directors who have earned multiple grants to share their tried-and-true tips:

• Assume that funders don’t know anything about your program, advises Ellen Walsh-Rosmann of Harlan (Iowa) Community School District. For instance, if you have a high free and reduced enrollment, make that known. Include other statistics about the consequences of food insecurity. Point out other innovative programming you’re doing, such as leading an active school garden initiative. ...