The state Department of Education (PDE) is looking for organizations who want to provide nutritious meals to children in low-income areas, particularly rural areas, during the summer months through the Summer Food Service Program. New sponsors must apply by May 1, 2026. 

Last summer, nearly 300 organizations provided nutritious meals to children at approximately 2,100 locations throughout the state. However, to reach more children, more organizations and meal sites are needed, especially in rural areas. Municipal and county governments, libraries, fire and police stations, national youth sports programs, and similar entities qualify.  

Participating organizations are reimbursed for meals served to children who live in areas in which at least 50 percent of the children qualify for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program. Organizations are responsible for managing the meal service sites where meals are provided to children. Beginning this summer, organizations serving rural areas may be approved to provide non-congregate meals, such as grab-and-go meals or delivered meals, to children in qualifying areas. 

The Summer Food Service Program, which began in 1976, is a federally funded child nutrition program designed to reach children in economically disadvantaged areas. For more information go to www.education.pa.gov/sfsp, call 800-331-0129, or email RA-SFSP@pa.gov. Click here for the press release.