3 Squares: Nourishing Kids Beyond the School Week

How weekend meal kits are helping children thrive — and how you can help

For many families across Washington, school meals are a lifeline. But what happens when the school doors close for the weekend?

Children who rely on free or reduced-price school meals often face a nutritional gap on weekends and during school breaks—a time when hunger can quietly take hold. That’s where Northwest Harvest’s 3 Squares program steps in.

Why Weekend Nutrition Matters

Weekend hunger is a hidden crisis. According to national data, millions of children in the U.S. experience food insecurity, and those from low-income households are especially vulnerable when school is out. Lack of consistent access to nutritious food can affect everything from physical health to emotional well-being—and it has a direct impact on learning outcomes.

How 3 Squares Works

The 3 Squares program provides weekend meal kits to students in high-need schools across Washington.

These kits are designed to be:

• Nutritious: Packed with healthy, shelf-stable foods that support growing bodies and minds.
• Dignified: Distributed discreetly to protect children’s privacy and self-esteem.
• Accessible: Tailored to meet the needs of students who participate in free or reduced-price meal programs.

Northwest Harvest partners with school staff, volunteers, and community organizations to coordinate distribution and ensure that food reaches the students who need it most. Schools receive a step-by-step guide, templates, and support to implement the program effectively.

“School staff with hearts for children always look for ways to help but we sometimes lack the resources. [3 Squares] provides us with the ability to help those most in need.”
— Kiona-Benton Elementary in Benton County

3 Squares Impact Snapshot

In the 2024–2025 school year:

• 47 schools participated across 14 school districts
• More than 1,000 students received weekend meal kits
• In partnership with the Yakima School District, more than 1 million pounds of food were distributed to students and their families

Want to help kids thrive beyond the school week?

This December marks the 10th anniversary of our annual 3 Squares Fund Drive, in partnership with KNKX Public Radio. Each year, listeners come together to support weekend nutrition for kids across Washington. Stay tuned for stories, interviews, and ways to give. Your support helps us keep kids nourished, focused, and ready to learn—every day of the week.

If you aren’t already on our email list, sign up now to be informed about 3 Squares and how you can support the program during our December fund drive with KNKX →