National PTA provides $45K in grants nationwide to fight child food insecurity

National PTA announced it will allocate $45,000 to PTAs across the United States to help address food insecurity among children and families. The funding comes primarily from the organization’s Disaster Relief Fund, which was created to provide emergency support for local PTA communities.

Yvonne Johnson, president of National PTA, commented on the impact of recent federal events: “During the recent federal government shutdown, many families faced hardship and lost access to food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). While the shutdown has ended, the congressional agreement only funds the federal government through Jan. 30, leaving families uncertain about support to help feed their children.”

Data shows that more than 40 million people rely on SNAP benefits, with children making up almost 40% of all recipients. Adequate nutrition is linked to children's health and educational outcomes. The PTAs receiving these funds plan to collaborate with local and regional food banks to either start or restock school pantries or run backpack programs that send food home with students.

Howie Berman, MA, CAE, executive director of National PTA, said: “We've heard from parents preparing to skip meals so they can feed their children, and from school administrators and PTAs scrambling to set up ad hoc food banks and fortify existing food pantries in their communities. PTA is committed to making sure families have what they need. This funding will deliver real-time support during the holiday season and help ensure children start school every day ready to learn.”

Last month, National PTA joined nearly 1,000 PTAs in sending a letter to both the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress asking for SNAP benefits distribution during the shutdown period. As discussions continue regarding federal appropriations for fiscal year 2026, National PTA states it will keep advocating for Congress and the Administration to prioritize children's health, well-being, and education.

National PTA is an organization made up of millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, business leaders and community members who are dedicated to supporting children's education and encouraging family involvement in schools. It operates as a registered nonprofit association focused on advocacy for public education.