Deadline: February 6, 2026
The Stop Hunger Classroom Challenge 2026 is a national opportunity designed to engage K–12 classrooms across the United States in meaningful, student-led hunger-relief initiatives. This challenge strengthens projects that schools are already implementing to address hunger, transforming them into more innovative, impactful and student-driven solutions. The Stop Hunger Classroom Challenge 2026 encourages classrooms to think critically, take action and contribute to the fight against hunger in their communities.
About the Stop Hunger Classroom Challenge 2026
The Stop Hunger Classroom Challenge 2026 invites classrooms to expand or improve existing school hunger-relief efforts—such as food drives, backpack programmes and community support initiatives. Rather than starting new projects, teachers and students enhance what is already working to make it more effective, sustainable and student-led.
Once a classroom registers, teachers receive a comprehensive Teacher Resource Guide and a project toolkit. These materials support discussions about hunger, guide planning, and help students execute their chosen project between November and February.
How the Challenge Works
1. Registration
Teachers must register their classroom by 6 February 2026. Registration unlocks access to the Teacher Resource Guide, student prompts and planning tools.
2. Classroom Discussion
Using guided resource materials, teachers facilitate conversations that help students understand hunger issues in their community. Students examine the strengths and gaps in current hunger-relief efforts within the school.
3. Project Planning & Implementation
Students design and implement an action-oriented project between November and February, focused on improving or expanding an existing hunger-relief initiative within the school.
4. Video Submission
A classroom video (maximum 3 minutes) must be submitted by 6 March 2026. The video should highlight the project, student leadership, activities implemented and the impact achieved.
5. Recognition & Finalist Selection
Twenty-nine classrooms will be recognised nationally for their efforts. Finalists will be invited to pitch their projects to the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation for grant consideration.
Eligibility
- Open exclusively to K–12 classrooms within the United States.
- Projects must be student-led, with teachers providing guidance and support.
- Classrooms must enhance an existing hunger-relief project rather than create a new one from scratch.
Benefits and Awards
A total of 29 classrooms will receive recognition and grants:
- 24 Semi-Finalists:
Award amounts of $250 or $500. - 5 Finalists:
Award categories include $750, $1,000, $1,500, $2,000 or $2,500.
Finalists will also have the unique opportunity to pitch their projects directly to the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation, further strengthening their chances of receiving funding and national visibility.
Timeline / Key Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Deadline | 6 February 2026 |
| Project Implementation | November 2025 – February 2026 |
| Video Submission Deadline | 6 March 2026 |
| Finalist Recognition | April–May 2026 during Youth Service Month and Global Youth Service Day |
What Classrooms Receive
- Teacher Resource Guide for structured learning and planning
- Project toolkit including templates, prompts and planning resources
- Email reminders to support teachers through the entire challenge timeline
- National recognition opportunities for participating classrooms
Why the Challenge Matters
The Stop Hunger Classroom Challenge 2026 empowers students to become problem-solvers and leaders in their communities. By expanding existing hunger-relief initiatives, classrooms strengthen sustainable solutions and create measurable impact. This challenge encourages collaboration, empathy, creativity and civic responsibility among K–12 learners, while also providing funding to support their efforts.
Apply or Learn More
Use the links below to begin your journey in the Stop Hunger Classroom Challenge 2026:
- [Apply for the Stop Hunger Classroom Challenge 2026]
- [Read more about the Stop Hunger Classroom Challenge 2026 programme]
For support with proposal drafting, refining and review, feel free to reach out: contact us for proposal drafting, refinning and review.
