About this archived opportunity

Core Program Funds Applications for core program funds are non-competitive. All libraries that take part in Lunch at the Library and submit approved applications will receive Core Program funds. Those funds can support the following Lunch at the Library activities: Library Meal Sites: Establish and serve USDA summer meals at library site(s) and provide learning and enrichment programming at those meal sites. Lunch at the Library meal sites should include programming. Programs can include -- but are not limited to -- literacy, health and wellness, nutrition education, and arts and culture-based activities, as well as book giveaways to help families build home libraries. Pop-Up Libraries at Community Meal Sites: Take pop-up libraries -- including programming, resources, and book giveaways -- to other community-based USDA summer meal sites, such as local parks and schools. Youth Development: Implement a youth development program that provides teen volunteers with workforce readiness skills as they assist with summer meal programs at either or both of the above settings. Additional Project Options Libraries that apply for Lunch at the Library Core Program Funds may also apply for any or all of the following additional Lunch at the Library project opportunities: Farm to Summer: This opportunity supports efforts to connect children, teens, and families with locally sourced, sustainable food, and provide hands-on food education and enrichment activities. Libraries as Conveners: Create a local summer meal network or coalition! These funds help develop and build local or regional networks and coalitions that focus on connecting more families with nutritious summer meals and foster collaboration in working together to reduce summer hunger. Innovation Grants: This opportunity supports libraries in implementing innovative and often larger-scale efforts to connect more children, teens, and families with nutritious meals during the summer. Funded projects go above and beyond Lunch at the Library Core Program activities. Think big and be as creative as possible when considering plans to connect your communities to nutritious meals during the summer.