Millions of children still go to school hungry, with a single meal often deciding whether they stay in class or drop out. While 466 million now receive school meals, half of primary school-aged children remain unreached—especially in low-income countries. World Vision’s School Meals Programme delivered daily meals to over one million children in 20 countries and drove 17 policy changes to strengthen national feeding systems. From South Sudan’s new strategy to Rwanda’s citizen-led “Dusangire Lunch,” momentum is building to end child hunger for good.

In today’s world where millions of children still go to school hungry, Mary Njeri, Global School Meals Director, puts a spotlight on school meal programmes—costing less than a cup of coffee per child—that are transforming lives and boosting learning worldwide. With proven impact and high returns, Mary urges governments, donors to make school meals a global priority so no child is left behind.

Marwa Farhan Mohamed, 15, sits quietly in the shade of what remains of her family’s home in rural Somalia. Her voice reflects the innocence of a child, but it is also heavy with despair.

USDA-funded school feeding in Mozambique is transforming rural markets by enabling farmers’ associations to supply fresh vegetables through Local and Regional Procurement. World Vision’s PARES project has helped former subsistence farmers organize, improve production, and adopt sustainable practices. In Matage, farmers now sell to schools, donate part of their harvest, and diversify through poultry. With 55 associations legalized, local producers are becoming key suppliers in the national school meals system.

A grandmother feeds her 12-year-old green mangoes to ease hunger—a harsh reality for millions in Malawi amid a food crisis and declared State of Disaster.

Amid ongoing conflict, displacement, overlapping crises, and worsening climate shocks, humanitarian needs in the Middle East & Eastern Europe are soaring.

Learners at a primary school in Ntondozi say life has transformed since World Vision provided clean water. Before, classes were disrupted to fetch unsafe river water, causing sickness and missed school meals. Now, lessons continue without interruption, the school garden thrives, and children like Benkhosi and Seluleko are healthier and focused on their studies. The change reflects the wider impact of World Vision’s WASH Programme, which is improving health and dignity in communities across Eswatini.

Discover WVI Nepal’s GEDSI progress from FY21–FY25, showcasing inclusive policies, programs, and practices for the most vulnerable communities.

A pioneering approach in Malawi, Tanzania, CAR, and Sri Lanka is proving that when children speak, school systems listen.