Share Table Program

At DC Food Project, we’re keeping good food out of school trash cans and putting it where it belongs: in the hands of hungry kids. Through our Share Table program, we combat cafeteria food waste while making sure every student gets enough to eat.

A Share Table is a designated space in the cafeteria where students can drop off unopened, sealed food items they don’t want from their school meals, giving their peers a chance to pick up extra helpings at no cost. It’s a simple, elegant solution that solves two critical issues at once: reducing waste and fighting hunger.

Why Share Tables Matter

The Cafeteria as a Classroom: School mealtime shapes lifelong habits. Normalizing food sharing teaches children sustainability and mindful consumption habits that extend far beyond the lunchroom.
Building Community & Empathy: Share Tables encourage students to look out for one another, creating a more compassionate, connected, and supportive school environment.
Fueling Focus & Learning: Access to extra nutrition keeps hunger at bay, eliminating classroom distractions so students can stay focused and ready to learn.

Our team works hand-in-hand with DCPS and APS Food and Nutrition Services to ensure all Share Tables comply with health guidelines and seamlessly integrate into school meal operations.

Want to bring a Share Table to your school? Contact us today to get started!

DCFP Numbers At A Glance

What We Are Hearing From Our Schools

“Walking out of school with our baskets yesterday, multiple staff members stopped me to praise the program and express gratitude for the difference it has made at the school. One teacher told me that she felt tremendous appreciation as she watched students who are chronically hungry turn to pieces of fruit during the day rather than looking for chips and other junk food. ”

— K Degan, Parent & Food Waste Advocate