Children need good food all year long, even when they’re not in school. The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) provides healthy meals to children ages 1 to 18, free of charge.
Across Nebraska, over 200 local sites offer summer meals through the SFSP. These
include schools, faith-based organizations, and community centers. There is no registration or documentation required; children simply need to be present to have a nutritious meal with their peers. In addition to food, many sites provide educational enrichment and recreational activities that help childern continue to learn and stay safe and active when school is not in session.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the summer food service program work?
The Summer Food Service Program is the summertime counterpart of the National School Lunch Program. The federal government has set aside funding to help provide healthy meals during the summer. Schools and community organizations that are located in eligible areas and meet federal guidelines can use this funding to serve meals free of charge.
What are the benefits?
For families that rely on school lunches during the academic year, making ends meet during the summer can be a challenge. Many families report extra grocery expenses of up to $300 per month during the summer (Source: Share Our Strength Summer Meals survey, March 2013). The SFSP helps to ensure that all childern have access to nutritious meals.
What kind of organizations serve meals?
SFSP meal sites are run by local organizations that meet federal guidelines pertaining to nutrition and safety. Most sites are local schools, faith-based organizations and other community partners. To locate a site near you, please visit our family resources page.
http://hungerfreeheartland.org/summer-nutrition-resources-for-families/
USDA is an equal an equal opportunity provider and employer
For Families / Para Familias
This page includes information about locations and hours / Esta página incluye los detalles sobre lugares y horas
For Childcare Providers and Community Organizations
Kids Crusin’ Kitchen
One of the primary barriers preventing children from accessing summer meals is lack of access to transportation. Many children who could benefit from the SFSP do not participate because unsafe routes or summer heat keep them from walking or riding their bikes.
Two years ago, The Salvation Army, Food Bank for the Heartland, and Hunger Free Heartland joined forces to bring free, nutritious summer meals to children in underserved neighborhoods.
Instead of asking the children to walk, Kids Cruisin’ Kitchen delivers hot meals to places where children already congregate such as pools, parks, and apartment complexes. We use the Salvation Army Disaster Relief vehicles and receive federal funding through the SFSP and through local sponsors.
Contact: Nora Kovar for more information.