School meals: The world’s biggest safety net for vulnerable children

School meals serve as a powerful safety net for vulnerable children worldwide, providing essential nutrition that supports their health, learning, and emotional well-being. Beyond just food, these programs promote gender equality, strengthen communities, and contribute to local economies by sourcing food from smallholder farmers. Especially in times of crisis, school feeding programs help keep children in school and foster hope and stability. Investing in school meals is an investment in a brighter, more equitable future for children and communities globally.