After-School and Summer Meals Program in Washington, D.C.

Children have always been overrepresented among the food insecure in the Greater Washington, D.C., area. Persistent childhood food insecurity can lead to chronic health issues such as asthma, anemia, and poor oral health. Child food insecurity is also linked with diminished academic performance, grade repetition, and anxiety, with long-lasting effects. Nearly 60 percent of children in the region qualify for free or reduced meals.

BGR partner Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB) operates the After-School and Summer Meals program in partnership with over 50 community organizations including: churches, recreation centers, and boys and girls clubs throughout the Greater Washington region. These sites already represent safe places for children during after-school hours, and children benefit from access to the multitude of resources our partners provide, such as mentoring and tutoring. Approximately 4,900 girls and boys will gain consistent access to quality, nutritious, “kid-approved” meals and snacks provided by CAFB to augment the social and educational programs provided by the community organizations.