Does the federal government provide meal programs?

Federally assisted meal programs operating in public and non-profit private schools and residential child-care institutions provide nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free meals or snacks for students.

What programs are available in Ohio?

The Ohio Department of Education website provides information on programs and services relating to food, a healthful diet and nutritional education:

• Child and Adult Care Food Programs (CACFP) provides meal reimbursements for licensed or approved child and adult care centers to help promote understanding of nutrition in overall health and develop positive food-related attitudes and behaviors.

• Claims Reimbursement and Reporting System (CRRS) used by schools enrolled in USDA child nutrition programs through ODE to submit required data and apply for meal reimbursements.

• Commodity Distribution Program are food staples purchased by the federal government for states to distribute to eligible schools and agencies to reduce the cost of meals.

• Resources and Tools for Food and Nutrition are a collection of information including forms, reports and links for Food and Nutrition.

• Federal School Meal Programs are assisted meal programs operating in public and nonprofit private schools and residential child-care institutions that provide nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free meals or snacks for students.

• Summer Food Service USDA Program is offered through the Ohio Department of Education that provides nutritious meals and snacks in sites that meet eligibility requirements.

• Wellness, nutrition education, physical activity and other school-based activities are designed to promote student health and well-being.