Montgomery, AL – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking sponsors to operate the 2011 Summer Food Service Program for Alabama children.
The Summer Food Service Program provides nutritious meals to children in needy areas, without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability, during extended school vacation periods. In most areas, the program operates from June until August. Under the program, meals and snacks are served to children in such places as schools, playgrounds and parks.
Public or private, non-profit schools and units of local, municipal, county or state governments may qualify as sponsors of the program in areas where at least 50 percent of the children are eligible for free or reduced-price school meals. Public or private, nonprofit colleges or universities currently participating in the National Youth Sports Program may also act as program sponsors. The National Youth Sports Program offers athletic and educational activities to low-income children. It requires that 90 percent of participants at each site meet U.S. poverty guidelines.
Private, non-profit organizations may sponsor the program. Some restrictions apply. Qualified sponsors are reimbursed for program operating and administrative expenses based on the current rates of reimbursement.
To be eligible, sponsors must:
· Provide a year-round public service to the community.
· Provide regularly scheduled meal service for children in designated low-income areas.
· Show financial and administrative capabilities for operating the program.
· Attend New Sponsor Training.
Potential sponsors in Alabama may contact Mr. James W. Peoples, Administrator, Ms. Connie Lightsey or Mr. Ben Guthrie at 334-242-8249.
For additional information, visit the USDA Child Nutrition website at www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/summer and http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/summer/FAQs.htm. New Sponsor Training will be offered in February 2011.
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