Data-Driven, Laser-Focused on Kids
Child Nutrition Index
Our powerful, proprietary Child Nutrition Index (CNI) tool helps us address hunger among Minnesota children by customizing strategies to increase their participation in U.S. Department of Agriculture food and nutrition programs.
The CNI data tool identifies populations according to meal program and meal participation. We calculate missing meals and work with communities to customize programs that will close this gap.
The chart below shows we are finally exceeding 2019 pre-pandemic levels, with gains in school breakfast and lunch meals served.
Minnesota’s children receive a fraction of the food available to them through federal meal programs.
meal participation
Below are the meal participation charts for low-income children in schools in the state and the 7-county area.
Comparing October 2019 and October 2024, data reflects the number of children served before and after the pandemic.
Our aim is to increase the number of sites serving meals and the number of kids participating.
The Free School Meals program should continue to boost breakfast and lunch participation during the 2024-25 academic year.
Reason for hope
CNI’s master database combines data from the the Minnesota departments of Education, of Health, and of Human Services.
This expansive database can pinpoint needs, their severity, and the corresponding federal reimbursement revenue potential, leading to strategic and cost-effective changes.
Our independent evaluation partner, EnSearch, Inc., is responsible for creating the CNI, synthesizing and analyzing of data, and determining our progress.