Child Nutrition Policy Updates
An initial list of investments being announced on August 24, 2026, and built upon in the months ahead.
Local Option School Procurement
The Food and Nutrition Administration will launch dedicated branding, outreach, and webinars to help schools procure even more locally produced foods.
Up to $70 million in School Infrastructure Grants
Invest in cafeteria upgrades—including cold storage, stoves, and other equipment—to help schools serve healthier meals and expanded offerings.
Public-Private Partnerships
Partner with leading companies to match USDA’s MAHA investment and help schools address critical cafeteria infrastructure needs.
$30M School Lunch Improvement Research
Support research into practical, cost-effective ways to improve school meal quality, including reducing added sugars and ultra-processed foods.
Pledge for Healthier School Meals
Encourage state and food service companies to adopt updated nutrition practices aligned with the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines—before federal phased-in requirements take effect.
Read Secretary Rollins’ letter to Child Nutrition Program partners (PDF, 54.7 KB)
Up to $25M Farm to School Grants
A third round of awards to schools, allowing them to incorporate locally sourced foods via the Patrick Leahy Farm to School Program.
What It Means
for School Meals
On August 24, 2026, Secretary Rollins and Secretary Kennedy will outline new investments aligning school meals with the Make America Healthy Again agenda.
$125M+
New Federal Investment
Across School Infrastructure Grants, NIH/AHRQ research, and new Farm to School grants for FY 2026.
300K
Students Benefited
The Pennsylvania Beef Council alone will partner with 175 local schools to benefit nearly 300,000 students with locally raised beef.
6 States
Farm to School Awardees
Highlighted awardees across Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Maine, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.
