During the summer, when schools are not in session, the states have created a program to feed kids from low-income households.
Those applying for the program must have a child who is under the age of 18. If a child's school provides a healthy lunch, that will end when the school year does.
Adjusting to the new routine and cooking an extra meal at home can be challenging for parents. There is strong evidence linking food insecurity to a rising achievement gap and childhood obesity, both of which can have long-term negative implications on a child's future health and well-being.
When the routine of low-income children's summer eating is broken, they are more likely to have a scholastic setback. It has been scientifically proven that youngsters gain weight two to three times faster in the summer, which can contribute to childhood obesity. Several summer feeding programs have been established by states to help kids keep up throughout the summer and avoid falling behind. Take a look at what follows to get more information on summer feeding programs and how to sign up.
Explore the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)
The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) is in charge of the federal government's Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). Meals under the program are served by sponsors that enter into contracts with state agencies and adhere to federal criteria.
Sponsors can get their money back after providing food for kids in the SFSP program because the program is fully financed by the federal government. The Summer Food Service Program is available at a wide variety of locations. In areas where half or more of the students qualify for free or reduced-price school meals, open sites serve those students at no cost.
When it comes to rules, restricted open sites are very similar to open ones, with the addition of a few extra precautions for security. Children from low-income households that participate in the National School Lunch Program are eligible to attend "closed enrollment" sites Children of migrant families can take advantage of the summer feeding program by visiting migrant sites.
There are at least two daily meals and snacks available at each site. Three meals a day are often provided at migrant centers. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, as well as low-fat and sugar-free options, are all part of the daily menu. Muffins and milk are one option, while granola and hummus are two others.
Educate Yourself on How to Help Support Summer Meal Programs
Promoting and maintaining healthy summer meal programs is a top priority for city leaders. During the summer, city officials can help assess the needs of families by sponsoring out-of-school programs.
A city official can organize neighborhood activities, form task forces, and help put feeding programs into action. Schools, nonprofit, and local government agencies can serve as program sponsors in the region.
All community centers that provide meals over the summer will participate in a training program to guarantee that all meals are healthy and environmentally friendly, as required by federal law. Get in touch with the National Hunger Hotline or search for a local site online if you or your children are interested in taking part in a summer meal program. Keep in mind that the qualifications and advantages of summer food programs may vary from state to state.
