2022 Lunch at the Library
Can you apply?
This grant is for California public libraries serving free summer meals to children and teens. Public library systems (501c3 or government-run) are the primary eligible applicants. The program funds meal service at library sites and pop-up locations in parks and schools. Funding supports meals, books, summer reading programs, wellness activities, teen volunteer opportunities, and community resource connections throughout California.
This grant is for California public libraries serving free summer meals to children and teens. Public library systems (501c3 or government-run) are the primary eligible applicants. The program funds meal service at library sites and pop-up locations in parks and schools. Funding supports meals, books, summer reading programs, wellness activities, teen volunteer opportunities, and community resource connections throughout California.
Program description
Public libraries are natural spaces for serving free summer meals to children and teens while school is out. Of the 2.4 million public school students in California who receive a free or reduced price lunch during the school year, only one out of six receive one during the summer according to the Food Research & Action Center. Lunch at the Library helps libraries provide free summer meals and programming at library sites, and take pop-up libraries to other community-based meal sites like parks and schools. Lunch at the Library also provides free books to help children build home libraries, summer reading and learning programs for children and teens, and health and wellness programs for families. It creates volunteer opportunities for teens and connects families to community services and resources.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
Details
This grant is for California public libraries serving free summer meals to children and teens. Public library systems (501c3 or government-run) are the primary eligible applicants. The program funds meal service at library sites and pop-up locations in parks and schools. Funding supports meals, books, summer reading programs, wellness activities, teen volunteer opportunities, and community resource connections throughout California.
How to apply
Application links
Program contact
- 📧 lunch@library.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-603-6708
Funding track record
Past applications & awards under this program (California Grants Portal) — how competitive it is.
By fiscal year
| Fiscal year | Applications | Awarded | Award rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-2022 | 79 | — | 0% |
Source: California Grants Portal
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