Feeding America has announced a five-year, $5 million grant from the ConAgra Foods Foundation to help provide free and reduced-price meals for children over the summer months, when many lose access to nutritious meals at school.

Last year, the United States Department of Agriculture provided healthy meals to more than 20 million children during the school year, but to only 2.3 million children through its Summer Food Service Program. The foundation aims to supplement that program by awarding Hunger-Free Summer grants to foodbanks in twenty-three states. In addition, the foundation will host a multi-city tour featuring country music singer Josh Kelley to help raise awareness of the issue.

"Summer puts a stress on families and children who are in need of healthy and nutritious meals," said Feeding America president and CEO Vicki Escarra. "With ConAgra Food Foundation's support we are able to get out into communities where the need is strong and ensure that children will not miss meals or go without proper nutrition while school is out of session."