A simple school meal can change much more than a child’s day. School feeding programs help children learn better, stay healthier, and attend school more regularly—while also supporting families and strengthening local communities. CLEF partners are now testing a new model designed to unlock the full potential of these multiple benefits.
For many children, especially in low-income settings, the school day begins on an empty stomach. School meals provide essential calories, vitamins, and minerals that children need to grow and thrive. With proper nutrition, students are better able to focus, remember what they learn, and actively participate in class.
School feeding can also make school more attractive, helping increase enrollment and attendance, particularly in rural communities where families face economic constraints.
The benefits extend beyond the classroom. By providing daily meals, school feeding programs ease the financial pressure on families. And when food is sourced locally, they can also create opportunities for smallholder farmers and support local food systems.
Come and see what is happening on the ground!
CLEF is a commitment to:
- Get more children into school.
- Make sure children learn at school.
- Achieve impact at scale; we want to make a difference in the lives of more than 4 million children by 2027.
CLEF funds school infrastructure and childcare facilities, supports teacher training in evidence-based pedagogical techniques, promotes behavior change so parents engage in their children’s education and apply good parenting practices to boost early childhood development, and tests a cutting-edge school nutrition program.
CLEF welcomes new partners: contact us to learn more about the initiative and to get involved.
