CACFP

This week, the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) announced it would no longer participate in a federal policy option that allows certain schools with longer-than-standard school days to serve federally reimbursed meals to students during the extended portion of the day. This policy option helps schools make sure children who stay later for additional instruction, tutoring, enrichment, or other learning opportunities have access to food before they go home. The following statement is attributable to Chris Bernard, president and CEO of Hunger Free Oklahoma.

Hunger doesn’t end when the school bell rings. For thousands of Oklahoma children, afterschool meal programs provide more than just nourishment—they offer stability, academic support, and a safe place to go. The 2024 Afterschool Meals Report highlights Oklahoma’s progress in serving afterschool meals and the work still needed to ensure every child has access to nutritious food beyond the school day.

March is a month of growth, renewal, and a renewed focus on ensuring our communities have access to nutritious meals. That’s why we’re so excited to celebrate National CACFP Week March 16-22, and to announce the release of our highly anticipated Afterschool Meals Report!