The Iowa Department of Education is seeking local sponsors for a federally funded summer nutrition program that provides free meals and snacks to children in low-income communities across the state.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Summer Food Service Program ensures children ages 18 and younger have access to nutritious meals during summer break. Adults over 18 with mental or physical disabilities who participate in school programs are also eligible.
The Department of Education is required to recruit sponsors by Feb. 1. Eligible sponsors include schools, nonprofit organizations, colleges and universities, camps, and local, county, state or federal agencies. Last year, more than 500 locations across Iowa served over 3 million meals and snacks through the program.
Meals, also known as SUN Meals, are served at sites such as schools, churches, community centers, parks and libraries. Some communities also offer mobile meal sites and SUN Meals To-Go options, particularly in rural areas.
Organizations interested in getting involved can visit the Iowa Department of Education’s Summer Food Service Program webpage or contact Stephanie Dross at 515-281-4760.
