CNP CN block prog

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction $624,790,414 on October 1, 2025, under the National School Lunch Program (CFDA 10.555), a formula grant supporting nutritious meal service for school children.

The award funds the operation of the National School Lunch Program across North Carolina public and nonprofit private schools and residential child care institutions. NC DPI, operating as the State Education Board through its Financial and Business Services Division, administers the program statewide, determining school eligibility, reviewing school food authority applications, and overseeing participating schools' compliance with federal meal pattern requirements and record-keeping obligations. Schools receive cash subsidies and USDA Foods for each reimbursable meal served and must offer lunches at free or reduced price to eligible children. The program also reimburses schools for snacks served in approved afterschool programs that include educational or enrichment activities.

The award covers the period of October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, with place of performance in North Carolina. NC DPI historically sub-awards portions of NSLP funding to local school districts, charter schools, and child care institutions to implement meal service directly. The state agency maintains responsibility for reviewing written applications from school food authorities, establishing written participation agreements, and ensuring participating institutions operate nonprofit food service available to all children regardless of race, sex, color, national origin, age, or disability.