Media Contact:
Jordan Baker
jbaker@frac.org
202-640-1118
WASHINGTON, February 7, 2023 — The Food Research & Action Center (FRAC) today announced it has been awarded a $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to conduct and support research on expanding equitable access to the federally funded child nutrition programs.
Through the Equitable Access in Child Nutrition Programs Project, FRAC will identify and share research on barriers to participation in child nutrition programs, including the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, Summer Food Service Program, Seamless Summer Option, and Child and Adult Care Food Program.
“For 52 years, FRAC has successfully worked to create, expand, and strengthen child nutrition programs that keep children nourished and fuel their health and learning,” said Luis Guardia, president of FRAC. “This project allows us to conduct research and identify best practices with a focus on equity in order to create an environment where underrepresented communities can access and afford quality and nutritious foods. We look forward to working with USDA on this important project.”
FRAC will identify and support research projects related to equitable access in child nutrition programs under four core activities: host listening sessions differentiated by child nutrition programs and conduct a qualitative analysis of the listening sessions, manage a subgranting process to identify research projects, provide technical assistance and community of practice for subgrantees, and disseminate research outcomes and best practices.
The competitive subgrant award process will fund up to $1.1 million to approximately 11 organizations to conduct research on barriers to equitable access in child nutrition programs and strategies to overcome them.
Research shows the value of the child nutrition programs. They help reduce childhood hunger, decrease childhood obesity, improve child nutrition and wellness, support academic achievement, and enhance child development and school readiness.
Yet too many children are still missing out due to a series of barriers. This project will focus on the unique barriers related to equity and present solutions to improve access to child nutrition programs.
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The Food Research & Action Center improves the nutrition, health, and well-being of people struggling against poverty-related hunger in the United States through advocacy, partnerships, and by advancing bold and equitable policy solutions. To learn more, visit FRAC.org and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
