The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) is once again working with local partners to support child nutrition this summer. Through a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the WVDE administers the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) feeding sites. This gives access to nutritious meals to those 18 years of age and younger. The USDA offers a website outlining locations to easily find feeding sites throughout the state and country. More than 400 locations in West Virginia serve meal at various times throughout the summer.
Each year, the SFSP ensures children have access to meals when schools are not in session. The WVDE accepts applications in the spring for organizations interested in hosting sites, including schools, churches, community centers, pools, parks, libraries, housing complexes and summer camps.
While the meals are often offered in conjunction with supervised activities, some sites provide delivery or to-go options. Low-income areas benefit the most from these programs.
“For families facing food insecurity, this program is more than a convenience; it is a staple for children,” said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. “We appreciate the participating organizations, and we hope to include more sites in the years to come, especially in rural areas.”
To learn more about sponsorships, visit the Summer Food Service Program page of the WVDE website.
