BATESVILLE, Ark. (March 9, 2025) — The Batesville School District’s after-school meal program has already dished out 14,803 free meals as of January, more than doubling the lunchtime totals for junior high and high school students. Powered by the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), this district-wide effort is meeting a clear need and reshaping how the community supports its kids.
Available to all students, the program has seen its strongest turnout among junior high and high schoolers, driven by a busy lineup of after-school events. With over half of Batesville’s students eligible for free or reduced-price meals, the district qualifies under CACFP to provide balanced nutrition not only after school but also during weekends and holidays tied to enrichment activities. The focus is on keeping students energized for everything from sports to band practice.
The initiative, managed by Opaa! Food Management, aligns with a broader goal of delivering high-quality, nutritious meals tailored to local families’ needs. Participation has soared, especially among older students who stick around campus late. The program’s impact stretches further, benefiting visiting teams, cheer squads, and band members by ensuring both home and away groups get fed before competing—a practical boost to hospitality and performance.
The district views this as more than a meal plan—it’s a way to maximize available resources and support students comprehensively. With numbers climbing, Batesville’s after-school feeding effort underscores the power of combining nutrition with opportunity.
