When the final school bell rings, many children transition from the classroom to an afterschool program where they can continue learning, build meaningful connections, and thrive in a safe, supportive environment. Afterschool programs are shown to improve student academic performance, increase student attendance, and help children grow both socially and emotionally. Offering meals through the Afterschool Nutrition Programs can strengthen these benefits while also increasing participation and supporting overall program budgets.
Adequate nutrition is essential to children’s growth, learning, and long-term well-being, and school meal programs, which serve nearly 30 million children each school day, are one of our nation’s most powerful tools for improving nutrition, supporting academic achievement, and advancing children’s health. For many children, school breakfast and lunch are the healthiest and most reliable meals they receive each day. Therefore, expanding access to and supporting the quality of school meals are critical investments in our nation’s children.
Across the country, states are wrapping up another year of Summer EBT. Since the program began in 2024, millions of families have received this benefit that helps provide children much-needed nutrition during the summer months.
