Nourishing Kids. Strengthening Families. Building Community.
At the Nishna Valley Family YMCA, we believe everyone deserves access to healthy food. Through our After School and Feeding the Heartland food programs, we’re helping ensure local children and families have access to nutritious meals and groceries throughout the year.
After School Food Program
Healthy Snacks for Growing Minds
Free, healthy snacks provided after school Monday through Friday (must be a member or pay the Y admission fee)
Through our Snack Program, we provide nutritious, hearty snacks after school until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, throughout the school year.
This program is made possible through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), which reimburses the YMCA for grocery costs—allowing us to serve healthy, balanced snacks that support children’s growth and energy between school lunch and suppertime.
How to Help
Our After School Food Program is strengthened by caring community member volunteers who are willing to lend their time and support. Volunteers play an important role in helping ensure children receive nutritious snacks in a welcoming and positive environment.
Volunteers can help by preparing and serving healthy, pre-portioned snacks, assisting with simple setup and cleanup, and helping create a positive experience for children during snack time. No food preparation experience is needed — volunteers are guided by a program coordinator, and all groceries and supplies are provided.
Snacks are served in a supervised setting where children can enjoy time together while participating in educational and recreational activities. Your support helps make sure children have access to the nourishment and encouragement they need to learn, grow, and thrive.
If you are interested in volunteering with our Food Programs, please contact Heidi Johnson at the Ann W. Wickman Child Development Center at 243-2553.
Feeding the Heartland
Helping Feed Families in the Community
Eligible families can receive grocery bags filled with nutritious food to help supplement meals at home. This program is available to qualifying households and is designed to support the health and well-being of children and families in our community.
This program is made possible through generous funding from a Farm Credit Services of America Grant and a YUSA Grant.
Who Qualifies
- Families currently receiving Free or Reduced School Lunches may apply to receive a free bag of groceries
How to Participate
- Register by Wednesday each week by clicking on the survey link and filling out a brief survey describing how this food assistance will benefit your family (applicants must be 18 years or older)
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Must provide proof of Free or Reduced School Lunch eligibility
All requirements must be completed before groceries can be distributed.
Important Details
- Registration is required each week
- One registration per family
- Space is limited to 15 families each week
- Families who are not selected for a given week are encouraged to register again the next week
- Confidential pick-up at the Y Racquetball Room (use back entrance) Fridays from 4 PM-5:15 PM
Community Impact
Together We’re Making a Difference
Food insecurity affects more than access to meals — it can impact a child’s ability to learn, participate, and reach their full potential. By providing reliable food support, the Nishna Valley Family YMCA helps remove barriers that families may face and creates opportunities for children to feel supported, cared for, and ready to succeed.
Our Food Programs are made possible through the dedication of community partners, volunteers, and supporters who believe every child and family deserves the opportunity to thrive. Together, we are strengthening our community by promoting health, supporting families, and ensuring that no one has to face food insecurity alone.
Why it Matters
At the Nishna Valley Family YMCA, we know that strong communities are built when everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Access to nutritious food plays an important role in a child’s development, a family’s well-being, and the overall health of our community.
Through our Food Programs, we are helping bridge the gap between need and opportunity by creating pathways for children and families to access support, build healthy habits, and feel connected to a caring community. These programs are one more way the YMCA lives out its commitment to strengthening individuals and families through compassion, service, and community partnerships.
Have Questions?
Our staff is happy to help answer questions about eligibility, food distributions, or other YMCA family support services.
Nishna Valley Family YMCA
☎ (712) 243-3934 for After School Food Program
☎ (712) 243-2553 for Feeding the Heartland
