About Child Nutrition Programs

The Child Nutrition Programs provide healthy, nutritious meals and snacks to the Nation’s children. Through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program, school children have access to healthy meals. Through the Special Milk Program, school children who do not have access to other meal programs can supplement their day with a serving of milk. Contact your local school officials or your Child Nutrition state agency to find out if your school participates in the USDA school meals programs.

Through the Child and Adult Care Food Program, children in child care settings have access to healthy meals and snacks. Day care centers and home day care providers can participate in the programs.

Through the Summer Food Service Program, children are provided healthy meals during those times when school is closed for the summer. 

For historical and current Child Nutrition participation data, please reference the program tables on the FNS Program Data site.

For questions about the Child Nutrition Programs, please contact your Child Nutrition state agency.

Last modified: 02/21/2012