According to the Economic Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 31.2 million children per day participated in the National School Lunch Program in 2009. By offering free and low-cost meals to school children, this program, like all nutrition assistance programs, helps to meet the needs of the nation's most vulnerable children.
Food Security
Defined by the World Health Organization as "when all people at all times have access to sufficient, safe, nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active life," food security is a key factor in the health and well-being of families. To be food-secure, households need to have access to available food and also the means to use the food, such as adequate cooking and food storage facilities. Children from food-insecure homes are at greater risk for health problems and developmental issues. In 2009, the Economic Research Service reported that 16 percent of households with children were food-insecure.
Nutrition Assistance
Many programs are available to help children at risk for nutritional deficiency. The primary federal nutrition assistance programs are administered through the USDA Food and Nutrition Service via its state agency offices. Each program has its own eligibility guidelines, primarily based on income. Families that participate in these programs benefit with increased access to healthy foods and to health professionals who provide recommendations for getting the most out of a food budget and ways to increase the nutrition value of everyday foods.
WIC
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, or WIC Program, provides access to food and nutrition education for pregnant women, breast-feeding women, non-postpartum breast-feeding women, infants and children up to age 5. Examples of foods provided include low-fat milk, whole-grain breads and cereals and fresh fruits and vegetables. The WIC Program also provides referrals to medical and health services, such as dental care and immunizations.
SNAP
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides financial assistance in the form of an electronic benefits card to eligible individuals or households. This card can be used to purchase food items at authorized grocery stores and food markets. SNAP, the new name for food stamps, is the largest USDA program.
Child Nutrition Programs
A variety of programs are available to meet the dietary needs of school-age children, including the National School Lunch Program, National School Breakfast Program and the Summer Food Service Program. In addition, programs are in place in daycare centers through the Child and Adult Care Food Program. Participating schools and daycare centers receive financial assistance from the USDA to offer healthy and nutritious foods at free or reduced cost.
Getting Help
All these programs are examples of major federal initiatives within the USDA. Many other federal, state and local sources of food assistance or more general financial assistance are also available. Local food banks and food distribution centers can also be very helpful in meeting the needs of low-income families. Contact a local or state health department for assistance in identifying available programs and services in your area.
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