Kevin Jonas Partners With Lunchables Lunch Combinations to Kick Off 'Field Trips for All'

MADISON, Wis., April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Hands-on experiences like field trips help engage children in learning that can open their eyes to the world beyond the classroom. That's why Lunchables Lunch Combinations is teaming up with pop music star, Kevin Jonas, of the world famous Jonas Brothers, to help deserving kids across the country go on an inspiring, educational experience with the launch of the program, "Field Trips for All."

Field Trips On The Decline

According to a 2009 report from The American Association of School Administrators, it's estimated that over the course of the current school year, the number of school districts eliminating field trips will increase by 56%. That's more than 30,000 schools(i). To help provide kids with the experiences to show them they can do great things, the Lunchables team is working with Kevin Jonas to kick off the program that will provide 50 deserving classrooms nationwide with unforgettable learning experiences they might otherwise not have.

"Field trips can play a critical role in helping open a child's eyes to the possibilities of what they can do and become," said Darin Dugan, senior director of marketing, Lunchables. "As a brand that's committed to helping kids realize their full potential, we're excited to launch this program which helps provide access to a variety of fun and educational opportunities that we hope will help shape their development."

Through June 1, 2010, to nominate a deserving classroom, go to www.lunchables.com and submit a nomination. From all nominations received, 50 deserving classrooms will be selected to go on an inspiring, educational experience.  

Kevin Jonas Serves As Celebrity Line Leader for Lucky LA Kids

To help kick-off the "Field Trips for All" program, Kevin Jonas accompanied a group of students from Manhattan Place Elementary School in Los Angeles to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. As part of their adventure, the kids were given the VIP treatment as they learned about all things aquatic, including viewing a reconstructed 63-foot-long Humbolt Fin Whale as well as taking a unique tour with an ocean curator discussing the preservation of skeletons and shells. "I remember my first field trip to Liberty Science Center. It was one of the best parts of going to school – being with friends, learning about new things and having fun!" said Kevin Jonas. "I'm excited to work with the Lunchables team to help kick-off the "Field Trips for All" program, and help give deserving kids a chance to discover new things and get inspired by a great experience."

For the kids making the excursion to the Museum, this was a special treat as it was the first field trip they experienced this year, and in some cases, the first field trip some of them had experienced, ever.

"Although most of my students live close to the ocean, many of them know very little about it," said Khristi Philips, teacher, Manhattan Place Elementary School. "I made a promise that I would find a fun way to help them learn more about the topic, so I'm really excited that the Lunchables team provided us with this opportunity. This was a special day for the kids that I know has helped bring what I'm teaching them to life in a memorable way."  

Free Admission To Select Field Trip Locations

To help families across the country experience the inspirational power of a field trip, on Saturday, May 1, 2010, families can take their own field trip to select locations courtesy of Lunchables. The following museums will offer free entry on a first-come, first-serve free basis*:

• Chicago, Ill. – Museum of Science & Industry
• Houston, Texas – Houston Museum of Natural Science Permanent Exhibit Halls
• Indianapolis, Ind. – The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
• Orlando, Fla. – Orlando Science Center
• San Diego, Calif. – Reuben H. Fleet Science Center

*Lunchables will cover up to the first $15,000 worth of admission

Introducing Project Potential

The "Field Trips For All" program is the first effort from the Lunchables team's new initiative called Project Potential. Aimed at empowering kids with opportunities that help them realize their full potential, Project Potential will provide enriching encounters kids otherwise wouldn't have the chance to experience.

To learn more about the "Field Trips For All" program or submit a nomination, visit www.lunchables.com.

(i) American Association of School Administrators. "New Study Finds School Districts Struggling in Response to Economic Downturn, Bracing for More Cuts", Amy Vogt. October, 27, 2009. http://www.aasa.org/content.aspx?id=8152&terms=field+trips

About Kraft Foods

The combination of Kraft Foods and Cadbury creates a global powerhouse in snacks, confectionery and quick meals.  With annual revenues of approximately $50 billion, the combined company is the world's second largest food company, making delicious products for billions of consumers in more than 160 countries.  The combined company's portfolio includes 11 iconic brands with revenues exceeding $1 billion – Oreo, Nabisco and LU biscuits; Milka and Cadbury chocolates; Trident gums; Jacobs and Maxwell House coffees; Philadelphia cream cheeses; Kraft cheeses, dinners and dressings; and Oscar Mayer meats.  Another 70+ brands generate annual revenues of more than $100 million.  Kraft Foods (www.kraftfoodscompany.com; NYSE: KFT) is a member of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, Standard & Poor's 500, Dow Jones Sustainability Index and Ethibel Sustainability Index.

SOURCE Kraft Foods