In 2022, we shifted our focus entirely to grant-based programming for Title I schools, phasing out parent-paid programs. This change allows us to maximize impact and efficiency because grant-based programs provide more stability with fewer administrative hassles. Once a contract is signed, funding is guaranteed, ensuring seamless program delivery.
Plenty of grants are available for Title I schools to help fund enrichment programs. From state grants to afterschool enrichment grants, here’s how your school can secure funding and get students cooking!
1. Title-I Funding Allocation
If your school qualifies as a Title-I school, you may already have funds for enrichment programs that support student learning. Cooking classes check all the boxes—math (measurements, fractions), science (chemical reactions, nutrition), history (learning about other cultures), and health (nutrition awareness)!
To use Title-I funding for a cooking program, allocate funds for enrichment activities. Schools have successfully utilized these funds to bring LIFT Enrichment on board.
2. 21st Century Community Learning Center Grants
If your school provides afterschool enrichment for low-income students, the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) program could be a game-changer. These grants specifically support afterschool and summer programs for Title-I schools, making them a perfect fit for a cooking initiative.
Bonus Tip: Emphasize the enrichment program’s academic and life skills benefits to strengthen your application.
3. State-Level Education Grants
State grants support programs that boost hands-on learning, nutrition education, and student engagement (hint: healthy culinary workshops!). Programs like Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) in California fund afterschool activities that encourage student growth.
Bonus Tip: Some grants prioritize Title-I schools, so highlight how your program will benefit underserved students.
4. After-School Education and Safety Program (ASES)
The ASES Program is all about supporting locally led expanded learning programs that bring schools and communities together. It helps create safe, engaging spaces where elementary and middle school kids receive academic and literacy enrichment during structured activities after school.
5. Local Health Department Grants
Your city or county’s health department may offer grants to encourage nutrition education and healthy eating habits for students. These grants often align with community health goals, such as reducing childhood obesity or increasing access to fresh produce.
Bonus Tip: Wondering where to start? Visit grants.gov to see what’s available in your area.
6. New York School Grants
If you’re a New York school looking to fund afterschool programs, Learning, Enrichment, and Academic Progress Services (LEAPS) and Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) grants are great options.
DYCD helps schools add fun enrichment activities—like cooking, STEM, and the arts—that support student learning. DYCD funding focuses on afterschool and summer programs, making sure kids in underserved areas have access to hands-on experiences. If you want to teach kids how to cook healthy meals and try out new skills, these grants can help make it happen.
Next Step
Bringing our afterschool cooking program to your school is easy—you just need the right funding! With options like Title-I funds, state grants, and afterschool enrichment grants, you can secure the backing for afterschool programs that teach kids valuable cooking skills and nutrition education in a fun environment.
Ready to get started with LIFT Enrichment? If your Title-1 school or district has access to grants and wants to bring our healthy culinary workshops onboard — click here to schedule a call.
Previous Newsletters:
Lessons in Aisle 5! Turning Grocery Shopping into a Life-Skills Adventure, Students Safe with 5 Essential Kitchen Safety Guidelines, Recipe: Seashells with Broccolini, Inc. 5000 Success Story