Children in Maryland will have access to a nutritious supper with the Child and Adult Care Food Program. The 2009 federal Omnibus Appropriations Act expanded the afterschool supper program to include Maryland as one of 10 states to participate.
The Maryland State Department of Education's School and Community Nutrition Programs Branch will offer the new supper program.
"We know students learn better with proper nutrition and for many Maryland children this program could play an important role in their intellectual development," said State Superintendent of Schools Nancy Grasmick.
The at-risk afterschool supper program will provide the highest rate of reimbursement to programs that offer suppers to children. The suppers will fill a much needed gap in nutrition in low-income areas. It's a gap where some children's last full meal of the day is school lunch.
Schools and child care centers are eligible to participate.