Head Start Announcement: New Supplemental Funding Available to Boost Nutrition Services

UPDATE: On September 23, ACF announced more than $61 million in supplemental nutrition funds to over 290 Head Start grantees across the country. Find the complete list of grantees and award amounts here.

On July 29th, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) announced the availability of one-time supplemental funding with the goal of promoting healthy eating and improving nutrition services for children and families enrolled in Head Start programs. This new supplemental funding comes in response to feedback from Head Start programs that lack of funding can be a barrier to supporting child nutrition and enhancing nutrition services.

This funding will allow Head Start programs to make significant improvements through the following categories:

• Food Service Upgrades
• Materials, Supplies, and Equipment
• Nutrition Education Resources
• Non-recurring Personnel Fees

Head Start programs play a critical role in supporting child development through ensuring access to nutritious foods and comprehensive nutrition services for children and families. This funding opportunity allows programs to access necessary and flexible funding to better support this role. Head Start grantees are encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible with a priority deadline set for August 22nd, however, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and may be considered after this deadline.