The school meal programs provide nutritious meals to millions of students each day. In fiscal year 2023, federal spending for these programs was $21 billion. It is unclear how many charter schools participate in these programs or what factors can affect their participation. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) was asked to review charter school participation in school meal programs. This report examines (1) available data on charter school participation in the National School Lunch Program over the past 5 years and factors affecting participation, (2) challenges that charter schools in selected states faced in school meal program participation, and (3) assistance from selected states and Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) that could help address identified challenges. GAO analyzed Education data on charter school participation in the National School Lunch Program for school years 2018-19 and 2022-23. GAO reviewed information from four states and 16 charter schools selected for geographic diversity, program participation, and other criteria; and interviewed state and school officials, visiting schools in two states. GAO also reviewed relevant federal laws and regulations, FNS documents, and interviewed FNS officials.