Five Reasons Why School Meals Matter

School meals are more than just a plate of food; they are the cornerstone of nurturing the next generation in places around the world where children face hunger. That’s why Global Communities is proud to implement integrated school feeding projects that help deliver essential nutrition, education and health services to over 435,000 pre- and primary school students in some of the poorest countries worldwide. 

“We know these meals are the foundation to better learning opportunities and outcomes, because we’ve witnessed how they increase student attendance and attentiveness,” says Leonel Arguello, Director of Integrated School Feeding at Global Communities. “But school feeding programs offer benefits that go beyond merely providing meals. Investing in these programs actively contributes to improving the health, prosperity and quality of life within a community, leading to a better society.” 

In recognition of International School Meals Day, learn five reasons why taking hunger out of the classroom is crucial for helping students learn, thrive and build brighter futures for themselves and their families. 

1. School meals nourish young minds and bodies. 

School meals might look different depending on where they are served, but they all share a common goal: giving students the essential nutrients they need to grow and learn. These meals contain a vital mix of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals that are crucial for children’s development. Additionally, they encourage healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime. 

2. proper nutrition from school meals boosts academic performance.  

Proper nutrition is directly linked to improved academic performance. When children are well-fed, they have the energy and focus needed to excel in their studies. By ensuring that students receive nutritious meals, we are not only supporting their immediate academic achievements but also paving the way for their long-term growth and development.

3. School meals encourage regular attendance. 

For many families, the assurance that their child will receive a meal at school is a significant incentive to ensure regular attendance. This is especially important in areas where food insecurity is common, as it provides a reliable source of nutrition that might otherwise be unavailable. This consistency in education reduces the likelihood of falling behind, which in turn lowers dropout rates. 

4. School meal programs can support local economies. 

Many schools’ meal programs source food locally, which benefits both students and the community. By buying fresh and nutritious food from local farmers, these programs ensure children get the essential nutrients they need while increasing local farm income.

5. School meal programs actively engage parents. 

For over 23 years, Global Communities has seen parents step up, from providing essentials like food and clean water to engaging in reading activities at home and within their communities. Their countless volunteer hours often go unnoticed, but without them, sustainable school meal programs wouldn’t be possible. More than 69,000 parents currently support our programs, volunteering a staggering 5.5 million hours annually.