This summer, 12,283 nutritious meals were served to children and adults through the Kids Summer Food Program. Although it wraps up in early August each year, Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas’ commitment to feeding hungry kids continues throughout the school year.

Due to the success of the Kids Summer Food Program over the last five years, Catholic Charities was asked to participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) administers CACFP through a state grant. The goal is to provide healthy meals and snacks daily to participating agencies, including day care centers and afterschool care programs located where 50 percent or more of the children that live in the area are eligible to receive free or reduced lunch.

As a first-time CACFP partner, Catholic Charities provided 7,817 afterschool meals, serving approximately 1,450 children at eight sponsored sites last year. The shelf-stable meals follow the USDA guidelines and include recommended servings of protein, milk, fruits and vegetables.

“Sadly, these children often don’t have access to healthy food at home,” says Denise Ogilvie, Vice President, Community Engagement. “Through this program, we can help meet their nutritional needs and contribute to their healthy development, growth and wellness.”