FAQ's about Dare to Care's Kids Cafe Program

What is a Kids Cafe? 
A Kids Cafe is a safe place where children, up to 18 years old, can get a nutritious meal for free.  Kids Cafes are located in churches, community centers, YMCAs, and Boys and Girls Clubs in areas with a high rate of families living below the poverty line.  In addition to a nutritious meal, activities such as tutoring, nutrition education, computers, sports, and arts and crafts, are offered at the sites.

Who is eligible to eat at a Kids Cafe? 
Children up to 18 years old.

How much does it cost?

Eligible children eat for free.

What kind of food is served?

Each meal is served hot and includes a protein item,

a starch and a vegetable. Here are 3 recent menus from the Berrytown Kids Cafe:

Baked ham                           

Broccoli with cheese sauce

Oven roasted potatoes               

Dinner roll

100% grape juice

Rigatoni with Italian sausage and tomato sauce

Buttered whole kernel corn

Orange Slices

Garlic Rolls

100% apple juice 

Chicken cordon bleu           

French style green beans

Wild rice pilaf

Garlic dinner rolls

100% grape juice

Pumpkin muffins

What do I need to bring to get a meal? 
Children may need to have their parents fill out a release form the first time they attend a Kids Cafe.  The form will ask for food allergies and emergency contact information.  Once the form has been turned in, children usually just give their name and age when signing in.  No ID is required.

When is the program operated? 
Dare to Care Food Bank operates 14 Kids Cafes that serve meals up to three times a week, year-round.  There is no limit to the number of times a child can visit a Kids Cafe.

Is there a dress code? 
All children are required to wear a shirt, pants/shorts, and shoes. 

What are the rules? 
While each director has specific rules for their Kids Cafe, these general rules apply to all:

• No one is allowed to bring alcohol, drugs, tobacco, firearms, or weapons onto the property
• Use your manners
• Show respect
• No running
• No bad language

How can I volunteer? 
To volunteer at a Kids Cafe, simply call the site that you choose and talk to the person in charge of the Kids Cafe program.  That person will work with you to set up a day and time that fits in your schedule.  If you are over 18, you will be required to give your name, address, SS#, and date of birth for a background check.

What are the tasks of the volunteers? 
As a volunteer, some of your duties might include: 

• Help with meal preparation
• Help serve the meals
• Pour juice
• Hand out plastic utensils and cups
• Interact with children
• Assist with cleanup