food for kids

Food resources so kids can focus on the important work of learning, playing and growing.

Helping kids to fill their plates with good food

Studies show children who face food insecurity are more likely to experience anxiety, irritability, more problems at school and more.

Thousands of children in Central and Northeast Missouri rely on free and reduced-price lunches at school, but over the weekends and through the holidays, it can be tough to get nutritious food. The Food Bank works with 200 school partners and more than 145 partner agencies to fill the gaps. That means all kids can focus on the important work of learning, playing and growing.

Food Bank Resources for Kid-Friendly Nutrition

Check to see if your child’s school has a School Market or other food program.

Programs differ from school to school, but all share food at no cost.

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Supplement with food from a partner near you.

Even if your child’s school has a food program, The Food Bank's partners can help everyone in your household get the food they need.

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Help make nutritious choices a priority.

Practicing healthy eating habits early can set kids up for a lifetime of success. Nutritious, child-friendly recipes can help.

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The Food Bank’s Children’s Programs

Children’s Programs encompass programs that feed children, including School Markets and Buddy Packs. School Markets allow students to choose from a range of nutrient-rich ingredients that support family-style meals. Buddy Packs are bags of pre-packed foods that provide nutrition to a single student over the weekend. Buddy Packs may be located in School Markets, as well.

Kid-Centric Programs

Teach your kids the value of giving back!

Kids can find age-appropriate way to learn, advocate and engage with The Food Bank's kid-centric programs.

Ballard Youth Leadership

The Ballard Youth Leadership Program helps high school-aged students learn about food insecurity and develop skills to address hunger now and into the future. High schoolers who live or go to school in one of The Food Bank’s 32-county service area are welcome to apply.

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Kids Helping Kids

Kids Helping Kids is hosted in the Volunteer Room at The Food Bank’s main office in Columbia, MO. Children 5 years and older are welcome to volunteer to make a difference. Kids and families help prepare food for distribution and learn how their service helps neighbors.

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