A hungry child is less likely to learn or even pay attention in school, experts say, so in the District, the city is going beyond breakfast and lunch programs to provide a third meal to students.
Thousands of students in the D.C. public school system already qualify for important breakfast and lunch programs. Now Chef Edward Kwitowski of D.C. Central Kitchen is preparing third meals to help children get through after-school programs on full stomachs.
The program, supported by federal funds, is a new effort to fight nutrition and obesity issues at a time when local governments and schools are struggling with budget shortfalls.
Parents are supporting the new feeding schedule, too, serving healthier foods at home.
Ninety-nine schools are participating in the additional foods program.
