CNP CN block programs total consolidated

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education $315.544 million on October 1, 2025, under the National School Lunch Program (CFDA 10.555), a formula grant supporting nutritious nonprofit lunch service for school children.

The award funds cash subsidies and USDA Foods to participating school districts and independent schools in Massachusetts, which serve reimbursable meals at free or reduced price to eligible children. Schools must meet Federal meal pattern requirements and maintain records of nonprofit food service operations. DESE, as the state agency, determines school eligibility, reviews written applications from school food authorities, and makes written agreements with participating schools and institutions.

The award covers the period October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026, with performance occurring in Massachusetts. DESE serves as recipient and pass-through administrator, distributing funds to over 70 sub-recipients including municipal school districts, municipal governments (Brockton, Lynn, Chelsea, New Bedford, Lowell, Haverhill, Holyoke, Springfield, Worcester, Leominster, and others), nonprofit child care and nutrition providers (Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicopee, Holyoke, Greater Haverhill, and Lynn; Pernet Family Health Service; Sarah's Place Adult Day Health Center; Kennedy Center; Metrowest YMCA; United South End Settlements), for-profit food service operators (Rainbow ADHC facilities at multiple locations; Cadence Education; Nuevo DIA Adult Day Health Center; Brighton ADHC; Clarendon Early Education Services; Paige Company), Head Start and early education organizations (Self Help Inc.; Making Opportunity Count; Communities United), youth and family service nonprofits (Children's Services of Roxbury; Home for Little Wanderers; Behavioral Health Network), and smaller program operators (Vilaj Lajwa; Sunshine's Place; Brockton Day Nursery; Child Care of the Berkshires; Lowell Day Nursery Association; Valley Opportunity Council; People Acting In Community Endeavors; Rockwood Early Educational Academy; and individual YMCAs, YWCAs, and community organizations). Sub-awards were dated July 31, 2026, with completion September 30, 2026.