Afterschool Meals

Afterschool Suppers and Snacks bridge the hunger gap between lunch and dinner for children aged 18 and under who participate in afterschool programs. These afterschool nutrition programs provide federal funds to community- and faith-based groups, schools, and public recreation centers so they can serve nutritious snacks and meals.

In October 2017, DC ranked #1 in the nation for afterschool meal participation.

Children of low-income families need nutritional support outside of school hours, when many parents must work long hours at multiple jobs to make ends meet. By serving nutritious snacks and meals, afterschool programs use food to draw children into neighborhood programs that keep them safe and engaged.

The Afterschool Meal Program is available through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and is administered through D.C.’s Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) — Wellness and Nutrition School Programs.