(Washington, DC) The District of Columbia’s Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) administered by the State Education Office (SEO), Nutrition Services Unit (SNAC) is currently recruiting organizations that would like to become sponsors for Summer 2005.  The deadline for submitting applications for this program is Friday, May 13, 2005. The SFSP reimburses organizations that provide meals to District children from low-income areas or to people with disabilities.

Eligible organizations include public or private nonprofit school food authorities, faith and community based organizations, housing authorities and other units of local or municipal governments, and public or private nonprofit day or overnight summer camps.  In accordance with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines, organizations may be reimbursed for serving up to two meals per day to eligible children 18-years-old or younger.

“While great strides were made in 2004 to recruit sponsors, the Summer Food Service Program needs many more faith based, community based and corporate organizations to support this much needed cause for the children of the District of Columbia,” States Dr. Cynthia Bell, the Director of the Special Nutrition and Commodities Program.

All youth participating in the program are served meals free of charge, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, family responsibilities, political affiliation, disability, source of income, or place of residence or business.

Further information about State Education Office (SEO) programs is available on the SEO website.  Those interested in receiving additional information or an application for the Summer Food Service Program are encouraged to write or call:

State Education Office (SEO)
Nutrition Services Division
Summer Food Service Program
441 4th Street, NW Suite 350N
Washington, DC 20001
Attn: Yvette Matthews

For further information, call (202) 724-7864