(June 11, 2025) AUSTIN, TEXAS — In an effort to combat child hunger during school breaks, No Kid Hungry Texas has awarded more than $300,000 in grants to 11 organizations across the state. These funds are intended to support flexible, non-congregate summer meal programs, helping children in rural and underserved areas access essential nutrition even when schools are closed.

Historically, federally funded summer meals were required to be consumed on-site at specific locations, a model that left many eligible children without access due to transportation challenges, working caregiver schedules, and sparse rural infrastructure. Estimates show that 6 out of every 7 eligible children miss out on summer meals under traditional models.

Thanks to recent federal policy changes, rural communities now have the option to implement non-congregate meal service. This includes methods such as drive-thru pickups, multi-day meal packs, and home deliveries. These alternatives better meet the needs of families but require additional staffing, equipment, and logistical coordination.

“Childhood hunger remains a serious challenge in communities across Texas—especially during the summer, when access to school meals disappears,” said Stacie Sanchez Hare, Director of No Kid Hungry Texas. “With rising grocery costs and limited resources, our grants are designed to help our partners feed more children when school is out.”

Grant funding will help recipients purchase point-of-sale systems, cover fuel costs for delivery vehicles, and pay for staff supporting home deliveries. Organizations receiving grants include school districts, food banks, and nonprofits.

Mel Jackson, Executive Director of the Josh Howard Foundation, expressed gratitude for the funding. “This support is a lifeline,” said Jackson. “The grant will help us overcome transportation barriers and deliver meals directly to kids in need.”

The following organizations have received No Kid Hungry Texas funding:

Bright Nutrition Central Texas Food Bank East Central ISD Hearne ISD Sabinal ISD Smithville ISD The Josh Howard Foundation Triangle Community Outreach Houston Food Bank Regional East Texas Food Bank San Antonio Food Bank

As more organizations across Texas adapt to non-congregate summer meal service, No Kid Hungry Texas remains committed to providing the tools and funding needed to reach children most at risk of hunger.

For more information about No Kid Hungry’s work in Texas, visit: https://state.nokidhungry.org/texas