Official Site of The State of New Jersey

This work in approximately five words: Coordinating communities to expand access

The K-12 School Meals for All project is supported by OFSA's Building Expanded Access to Nutritious School Meals (BEANS) grant program. The Hudson County Food Security Task Force (FSTF), within the Hudson County Department of Health and Human Services is strengthening participation in federal child nutrition programs by building the knowledge, capacity, and coordination of schools and trusted community partners. They are working with partners including the Interim Executive County Superintendent of Schools, Hudson County Department of Family Services and Reintegration, Community FoodBank of New Jersey, Hudson County school districts, public libraries, Hudson County Division of Children and Youth Services, faith-based organizations, food pantries and food distribution centers, and community-based organizations.

The initiative will establish a coordinated countywide approach to increasing access to school nutrition programs, informed by county data showing high levels of eligibility for free or reduced-price school meals across Hudson County school districts and continued gaps in participation in nutrition assistance programs. A consultant with expertise in State nutrition legislation, SNAP navigation, and school meal enrollment will provide technical assistance and professional development to school personnel, youth-serving organizations, and community partners.

Project activities will include multilingual outreach and enrollment assistance, as well as the distribution of educational resources developed by OFSA and Hunger Free New Jersey, including public service announcement videos. By equipping trusted community partners with accurate, accessible information and practical tools, the initiative will help organizations better support families in navigating school meal and other nutrition assistance programs.

The project will also strengthen referral systems between schools, community organizations, and food assistance providers to improve coordination and follow-through. By establishing sustainable referral pathways and strengthening cross-sector collaboration, K-12 Meals for All will support more equitable access to school nutrition programs and other food resources for children and families throughout Hudson County. This project supports the New Jersey Food Security Strategic Plan through Strategy 3.1 Tailored Education, Outreach, and Awareness Efforts