Afterschool programs can access funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and Summer Food Service Program (SFSP).  These federal funds are available to reimburse schools and non-profit organizations for nutritious snacks and meals served to children and youth in afterschool programs.  Accessing these funds depends on the economic characteristics of the community being served; for example, eligibility to access funds is often linked to the percent of students that qualify for free and reduced price meals and snacks. 

This document provides an overview of the USDA food programs available for use by eligible afterschool programs, including information on reimbursement rates, and program and area eligibility.  It also offers highlights from the 2010 Child Nutrition Reauthorization and its impact on afterschool programs. For more information, please visit: http://www.fns.usda.gov.