Nutritional Development Services Connects

Nutritional Development Services accomplishes its mission of feeding children and those in need by connecting resources with those in need of resources. In the case of Meals for Children, NDS connects federally-funded programs with area schools, child care centers, shelters and community-based centers. It is our tax dollars at work in service to children! With the Community Food Program, NDS connects the generous donations of individuals, schools and parishes with local food cupboards, soup kitchens and outreach teams.
  • What is NDS?
    Nutritional Development Services (NDS) is an agency of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia within the Secretariat for Catholic Human Services.
  • Child Nutrition Programs
    The NDS School Lunch Program provides free or low cost meals to children and students in the Philadelphia region.
  • Community Food Program
    The NDS Community Food Program helps people who are in need of food throughout the city and surrounding counties. People of all faiths and ethnicities depend on us for assistance.

Recent News

  • READ MORE
    Remembering Sister Marita Jean McCormick, IHM
    October 4, 2023
    The Community Food Program celebrates the life of Sister Jean, who passed away on September 30th.  Sister Jean was a dear...
  • READ MORE
    Nutritional Development Services Hosts Annual Lenten Food Drive
    March 3, 2022
    This year’s Lenten food drive runs Wednesday, March 2-Tuesday, April 12, 2022. Nutritional Development Services (NDS), an...
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    Tech firm donates $50K to archdiocesan hunger relief agency, with matching gift challenge
    January 6, 2022
    For the second year in a row, Convergence Acceleration Solutions (CAS) Group has donated $50,000 to archdiocesan Nutritional ...

Testimonials

When I am looking for a simple service project to do with a group of high school or college students, I’m always grateful knowing that NDS will make sure our snack bags get into the hands of children who need an encouraging word along with a bit of after-school protein.  It helps us raise awareness about kids in need so close to home.  And the NDS pickup policy is a life-saver!  Thanks for helping us to help you feed the hungry!
Christine Eberle, Gwynedd-Mercy College
Our students are arriving bright and early to satisfy their hunger! They are hungry for a great education and a well-balanced breakfast! At St. Francis de Sales, we are making sure that they get both thanks to NDS’ wonderful program.
Sister Mary McNulty
The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program has been the most exciting thing to happen at Gesu this year. Students are thoroughly enjoying tasting some fruits and vegetables that are totally new to them. They love listening to the morning announcements which explain the nutritional value and the history of the fruit and vegetable. This program has been invaluable to our healthy eating program.
Sister Ellen Convey, IHM, Principal
Your meals are the best, and the kids love them!
Project Mercy-Tioga, Site 64
The meals are nutritionally balanced for our children’s growing minds and bodies.
Salvation Army, Site 92
NDS is responsive and organized. Our organization has a long-standing relationship with NDS.
Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia, Site 306
Excellent service, organized and timely, very nutritious and tasty, based on a previous relationship.
Evangelical Lutheran Church, Site 2101
Satisfied with many years of service. Meals are nutritious and well packaged.
Word Alive Learning Center, Site 381
We are grateful for our connection with NDS Community Food Program.  We know we can count on their food staples that help parents feed their children with nutritious selections.  The regular food deliveries eliminate our anxieties about not having enough food and not sending people away without a respectful amount of food.
Sister Anna Marie Lesutis, RSM, RN, Saint Helena Food Cupboard