The summer months often bring challenges for families facing food insecurity.
But thanks to a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) program, the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) can approve and fund local partners to host Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) sites. Children 18 years old and younger can participate.
The program allows local communities and organizations to step in and meet the needs of families when school is not in session. When schools break for the summer, food insecurity often increases without the school breakfasts, lunches and backpack programs that public schools offer.
The SFSP allows local communities and organizations to step in and meet the needs of families when school is not in session. Last year, this program provided more than 1.4 million meals in the state.
Although the Office of Child Nutrition is still reviewing applications, state Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt wants families to be aware that feeding sites are already opening in our state.
“Hunger does not take a break during summer, and our children may experience more challenges because school nutrition programs are not available,” Blatt said. “We want to push this information out so that those who need these resources can be assured that there are meals available for their children.”
The USDA offers a website that lists locations to easily find feeding sites throughout the state and the country. The WVDE is expected to continue to review and update the approved sites.
To learn more about sponsorships, visit the Summer Food Service Program page on the WVDE website.