Library-Based Meal Sites Grant

The Library-Based Meal Sites program addresses summer food insecurity among low-income families in California by providing nutritious meals and promoting literacy. Libraries can apply for funds to enhance their summer reading programs, purchase operational supplies, and organize enriching activities for children. By leveraging library resources, the program aims to create a supportive environment for children and teens, ensuring they have access to healthy food and educational opportunities during the summer months.

For many families, the stability, nutrition, and education provided during the school year end when school lets out for summer. During the summer months, children and teens in low-income families often have reduced or limited access to healthy food. The Lunch at the Library program exists to meet this need while sharing information about other resources available at the library and in the community.
Libraries who will serve summer meals at library sites can apply for Lunch at the Library Core Program Funds. Funds can be used for:
Books to build home libraries, which include literature connecting families to summer readingMaterials for outreach and promotion of your summer reading programsOperational supplies (refrigeration supplies, table coverings, shade tents, etc.)Supplies for programming at community meal sitesPresentations offering enrichmentStaffing costs for support outreachAny other reasonable idea that promotes library resources and literacy with families at community meal sites

Eligibility

Funds and support are available for all California public libraries that help to provide summer meals for children and youth.

Ineligibility

Unallowable costs include but are not limited to (please ask if you have questions):Food and refreshmentsFundraising activities, including grant writingCash reserves and endowment holdings; purchase of land, buildings or major constructionNon-educational social activities such as receptions, parties, galasGifts/prizes/incentives; cash prizes, or gift certificates with monetary valueContributions and donations to other entitiesExpenses incurred before the start of the grant period or after the ending date of the grant period without extension request and approvalLobbying activities that are intended to influence the actions, policies, or decisions of government officials