Afterschool meals power kids through homework, tutoring, and sports.

The Afterschool Meals program, part of the federal Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), makes sure that no child goes to bed hungry. It’s a simple concept: schools, community centers, and afterschool programs provide nutritious meals to kids after the school day ends.

Here’s why afterschool meals matter:

• Afterschool meals help end hunger. 1 in 8 kids in Washington State struggles with hunger, which means many kids do not receive three consistent meals each day. By serving afterschool meals in the places where kids learn and play, schools and community organizations can help directly reduce childhood hunger.

• Afterschool meals are financially beneficial. The Afterschool Meals program is supported by federal reimbursements that cover the cost of food, allowing programs to reallocate funds that would otherwise be spent providing snacks. For school nutrition departments already serving school meals, afterschool meals is a simple and sustainable resource to add for students.

• Afterschool meals boost learning. Proper nutrition is the secret ingredient to a child’s success, and many kids rely on getting breakfast and lunch at school. But learning doesn’t stop after the school day ends. Afterschool meals give kids the energy and focus they need to excel in academics, sports, and enrichment activities.