The USDA announced $50 million in grants for schools to purchase food service equipment.  This amount supplements the previous $30 million allocation earlier in 2022.  The announcement coincided with National School Lunch Week, October 10th through 14th.

Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, stated, “Ensuring access to nutritious school meals is one of the best investments we can make in our fight to end child hunger and improve health.”  He added, “As we celebrate the valiant efforts of school nutrition professionals across the country this National School Lunch Week, USDA is doubling down on our commitment to helping schools overcome challenges including higher food prices and continued supply chain disruptions.”

Funds can be used to purchase equipment that will expand school breakfasts, store fresh food, enhance food safety and to encourage local sourcing.