Because Every Child Deserves a Healthy Start
At Children’s Healthy Nutrition Association (CHNA), we do more than provide food—we empower children, families, and communities to build healthier, brighter futures. Here’s why supporters, partners, and families trust us:
Child-Centered Approach
At CHNA, children are at the heart of everything we do. Every program we create is designed to meet their nutritional needs, support their growth, and empower them to make healthy choices for life. We don’t just feed children—we nurture their potential so they can thrive in school, at home, and beyond.
Proven Impact Nationwide
Our work reaches communities across the United States, from urban neighborhoods to rural towns. With thousands of healthy meals served, hundreds of schools supported, and countless families empowered, our programs deliver measurable results and lasting change. When you partner with CHNA, you’re helping to create healthier futures for children everywhere.
Education Beyond Meals
We believe true change comes when children and families gain the knowledge to build healthier lives. Beyond providing meals, CHNA offers engaging school programs, interactive workshops, and hands-on resources that teach children how to make smart, nutritious decisions for a lifetime of wellness.
Community Partnerships
We know we can’t do this alone. That’s why we partner with schools, community centers, local organizations, and national advocates to expand our reach and maximize our impact. Together, we create sustainable solutions that fight hunger, promote health, and strengthen communities.
About Us
Nourishing Futures, One Child at a Time
At Children’s Healthy Nutrition Association (CHNA), we believe that no child’s potential should be limited by hunger or poor nutrition. Founded with a simple yet powerful mission, we are dedicated to ensuring that every child in the United States has access to wholesome, nutritious food and the education needed to lead a healthy, active life.
Childhood is the foundation for a lifetime of health, learning, and opportunity. Yet, millions of children face barriers to proper nutrition, whether due to poverty, lack of resources, or limited education about healthy eating. At CHNA, we work tirelessly to break those barriers by:
- Providing healthy meals and food assistance to underserved families.
- Partnering with schools to introduce nutrition education programs.
- Hosting workshops and resources for families to make healthy, affordable choices.
- Advocating for stronger child nutrition policies on a local and national level.
Our passionate team—composed of nutritionists, educators, community leaders, and volunteers—believes that when children have the fuel and knowledge they need, they can succeed in school, thrive in their communities, and grow into healthy, empowered adults.
From urban centers to rural towns, we partner with families, schools, and organizations to create a brighter future for all children. Because when we nourish kids today, we build stronger communities tomorrow.
Our Mission
Nourishing Bodies, Empowering Futures
At Children’s Healthy Nutrition Association (CHNA), our mission is to ensure every child in the United States has access to nutritious food and the knowledge needed to make healthy choices for life. We work tirelessly to fight childhood hunger, deliver engaging nutrition education, and empower families and schools to create healthier environments where every child can grow, learn, and thrive.
Nourishing Children Today for a Healthier Tomorrow
At Children’s Healthy Nutrition Association (CHNA), our mission is to ensure that every child in the United States has consistent access to nutritious, wholesome food and the education necessary to make healthy choices. We are dedicated to combating childhood hunger and malnutrition by providing meals, resources, and support to children, families, schools, and communities. Through advocacy, outreach, and partnership, we empower children to develop lifelong habits that promote wellness, growth, and success.
Our goal is to create an environment where no child is held back by hunger or lack of knowledge — where every child can thrive physically, mentally, and academically because they have the nourishment and tools they need to flourish.
Our Vision: A Future Where Every Child Thrives
We envision a future where childhood hunger is eliminated, and all children, regardless of their background or circumstances, have equal opportunities to grow, learn, and lead healthy lives. A future where nutritious food is accessible, education on healthy living is widespread, and communities work together to support the well-being of their youngest members.
Through persistent effort and collective action, CHNA aims to be a national leader in transforming how children experience nutrition and health — building stronger families, healthier schools, and vibrant communities for generations to come.
Our Impact
Making a Real Difference in Children’s Lives Across the Nation
At Children’s Healthy Nutrition Association (CHNA), every meal served, every lesson taught, and every community supported is a step toward a healthier future for America’s children. Our work touches thousands of lives each year — and the results speak for themselves.
- Over 500,000 nutritious meals served annually to children in underserved communities, fueling their growth and learning.
- 1,200+ schools partnered nationwide, integrating nutrition education into classrooms and cafeterias.
- 50+ community workshops held each year, empowering families with the tools and knowledge to build healthier homes.
- Advocated for stronger child nutrition policies at local, state, and federal levels to expand access and improve standards.
Our impact goes beyond numbers — it’s about the children who eat better, learn more, and dream bigger because of the support and resources we provide.
Together, with your support, we’re building a future where every child can thrive.
Our Core Values:The Principles That Guide Everything We Do
At CHNA, our mission is powered by a deep commitment to values that ensure dignity, sustainability, and impact. These values shape how we serve children, work with communities, and grow our movement for a healthier future.
Compassion
We lead with heart. Every program we design and every meal we serve is rooted in compassion for the children and families we support. We understand the challenges they face and respond with kindness, empathy, and respect—making sure every child feels seen, heard, and cared for.
Equity
We believe that every child, no matter where they live or what their background is, deserves a fair shot at a healthy future. Our work focuses on removing barriers to good nutrition, education, and wellness—because true health equity means no child is left behind.
Integrity
We hold ourselves to the highest standards of honesty and accountability. Whether it’s how we use donations or how we report our results, we operate with full transparency. Our integrity earns the trust of communities, partners, and supporters alike.
Education
We don’t just feed children—we teach them. Through fun, age-appropriate programs and community workshops, we empower children and families with the knowledge they need to make healthy choices that last a lifetime.
Sustainability
Our solutions are designed to last. From building local food systems to training community leaders, we focus on long-term change. We ensure our efforts today create healthier, self-reliant communities for tomorrow.
Inclusivity
We embrace the beauty of diversity. Our programs are culturally sensitive, accessible, and inclusive of all races, languages, and family structures. Every child, caregiver, and partner is welcomed and valued at CHNA.
Our Work
Feeding, Educating, and Empowering Every Child
At Children’s Healthy Nutrition Association (CHNA), our work focuses on building a healthier future for children across the United States. We provide nutritious meals to underserved kids, deliver engaging nutrition education in schools, and empower families with tools to make healthier choices.
Through partnerships with schools, community organizations, and local leaders, we address both immediate hunger and long-term health by combining food assistance, education, and advocacy. Every program we run helps children grow stronger, learn better, and develop lifelong habits that lead to healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Healthy Meals for Kids
We believe no child should ever go hungry. Our Healthy Meals for Kids program ensures children, especially those in underserved communities, receive balanced, nutritious meals. By partnering with schools, community centers, and local organizations, we provide healthy breakfasts, lunches, and snacks that fuel learning, growth, and overall well-being. For many children, these meals are a vital lifeline that helps them focus in school and stay active and healthy.
Nutrition Education in Schools
Good nutrition isn’t just about access to food—it’s about knowledge. Through our Nutrition Education in Schools program, we collaborate with teachers, parents, and students to promote lifelong healthy habits. We deliver fun, engaging workshops, cooking demonstrations, and interactive lessons that teach kids the value of eating well, staying active, and making smart food choices. Our goal is to empower the next generation with the skills they need to thrive.
Family Support & Community Outreach
Healthy children come from healthy homes. Our Family Support & Community Outreach initiatives provide parents and caregivers with the tools and resources they need to make nutritious, budget-friendly meals at home. We organize workshops, distribute healthy recipes, and connect families to food assistance programs and local resources. By strengthening families, we strengthen communities, ensuring every child can grow up in a supportive, health-conscious environment.
Advocacy for Child Health Policies
At Children’s Healthy Nutrition Association (CHNA), we believe that sustainable solutions to childhood hunger and poor nutrition go beyond meals—they start with strong policies. That’s why we work tirelessly to advocate for legislation and programs that protect and improve children’s health across the United States.
Millions of children face food insecurity and lack access to healthy meals, both at home and in school. While direct support helps address immediate needs, real, lasting change comes from shaping the systems that impact children every day. Our advocacy efforts focus on:
- Promoting Nutrition Standards in Schools
Ensuring school meal programs provide fresh, balanced, and nutrient-rich options for all students. - Fighting Childhood Hunger
Supporting policies that expand access to free and reduced-cost meal programs for low-income families. - Championing Community Support Programs
Advocating for funding and resources for after-school and summer nutrition initiatives so no child goes hungry when school is out. - Influencing Public Health Initiatives
Partnering with local and national leaders to develop long-term solutions for childhood obesity, malnutrition, and food education.
Through petitions, collaborations with lawmakers, and community-driven campaigns, CHNA gives a voice to children and families who need it most. By driving policy change, we not only feed children today but also create a future where every child, regardless of background, can access the nourishment they need to thrive.
Meet Our Team
The People Behind the Mission
At Children’s Healthy Nutrition Association (CHNA), our passionate team is the heart of everything we do. From nutrition experts and educators to community leaders and dedicated volunteers, each member brings their skills and dedication to ensure that every child has access to nutritious food and the knowledge to lead a healthy life.
Harold Payne
Executive Director
With over 15 years of experience in nonprofit leadership and public health advocacy, Sarah leads CHNA with a vision to eliminate childhood hunger and promote lifelong health. She oversees all programs, partnerships, and outreach efforts nationwide.
Steven Nale
Director of Nutrition Programs
A registered dietitian and child wellness advocate, David designs and manages CHNA’s nutrition initiatives, ensuring every meal we provide meets the highest standards of health and balance.
Doreen Faria
Community Outreach Manager
Emily works closely with schools, families, and community centers to expand our programs, organize workshops, and build partnerships that bring real change to local communities.
TESTIMONIALS
What People Are Saying
At Children’s Healthy Nutrition Association (CHNA), we believe the voices of the families, educators, and partners we serve speak louder than numbers. Here’s what they have to say about our work:
“CHNA has been a lifeline for my family. During tough times, they made sure my kids had healthy meals every day. It’s more than food—it’s hope.”
James Dickman
Blogger
“Our students are not only eating better but learning about the importance of nutrition. CHNA’s school programs have transformed the way our kids see healthy food.”
Mary Ritter
Traveller
“Partnering with CHNA has been one of the most impactful decisions for our community center. Together, we’re reaching children who would otherwise go without.”
Beau Lieb
Writer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Explore our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about our mission, programs, how to get involved, and the impact we’re making together. Whether you’re a parent, educator, volunteer, or supporter, you’ll find the information you need right here.
1. What is CHNA?
CHNA (Children’s Healthy Nutrition Association) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that every child in the United States has access to nutritious food and the knowledge to make healthy choices. We provide education, resources, and advocacy to support children, families, schools, and communities.
2. Who can benefit from CHNA’s programs?
Our programs are designed for children and their families, especially those in underserved communities. We also collaborate with schools, local organizations, and policymakers to expand the reach and effectiveness of our initiatives.
3. How does CHNA promote child nutrition?
We offer:
Advocacy for child nutrition policies at local and national levels
Educational workshops on healthy eating habits
Community garden programs
Nutrition-focused curriculum support for schools
4. How can I get involved?
You can:
Partner with us as a school, business, or community group
Visit our Volunteer Page or Contact Page for more information.
Volunteer for local events and school outreach
Contact to support our programs
5. Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes. CHNA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law. After donating, you will receive a confirmation email with the necessary documentation for your records.
6. Do you offer nutrition programs in schools?
Yes. We partner with public and private schools to implement nutrition education, healthy meal planning, and garden-based learning programs that teach children how to grow, prepare, and appreciate wholesome foods.