(Des Moines) Governor Kim Reynolds today announced USDA approval of Healthy Kids Iowa, a new summer food pilot program designed to feed more children with healthier options at lower cost. The initiative builds on Iowa’s existing network of over 500 summer meal sites.
“All Iowa children deserve nutritious, wholesome food,” said Gov. Reynolds. “Thanks to USDA and Secretary Rollins for supporting our efforts.”
With $12 million in USDA reimbursements and $900,000 in state funding, the program added 61 new sites in 2024. Families with children aged 4–18 and incomes at or below 185% of the federal poverty level can receive $40 per child monthly in healthy food, chosen based on cultural and dietary needs.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins praised Iowa’s leadership, calling it a model of state-led innovation. The program will run June through August 2025 in partnership with Feeding America food banks.
For more information, contact Iowa HHS or the Governor’s Office.
