The Child Nutrition Division of the State Department of Education is seeking partners for this year’s summer food service program.

The program was created to assist families who may not be able to afford to give their children nutritious meals when school is not in session, and provides free meals and snacks to children ages 1 through 18 in low-income areas.

“Our public schools serve millions of free and reduced-price breakfasts and lunches during the school year, but hunger does not take a summer vacation,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said. “Our summer program enlists community partners, known as sponsors, to fill that gap during the summer months so that our students can return to school in the fall ready to learn.”

Summer food sponsors are reimbursed for each qualifying breakfast, lunch, snack and/or supper they serve at approved sites across Idaho.

Sponsors are required to attend annual training and complete the application process. A training session will be held on March 7, in Coeur d’Alene.

Application information will be provided to eligible sponsors; applications are due to the State Department of Education by April 29.

Info: 208-332-6828 or sde.idaho.gov/cnp/sfsp/.

Last summer, 58 sponsors served more than 4.1 million meals and snacks at more than 250 sites across Idaho.