The V.I. Dept. of Education's State Office of Special Nutrition Programs has announced the opening of the 2024 Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) Sponsor Application process. The SFSP aims to provide nutritious meals to children during the summer months when school is not in session. This program is open to public and non-profit organizations that wish to participate as sponsors.
Organizations interested in applying for the program can obtain the Sponsor Application Package or seek additional information by contacting the State Office of Special Nutrition Programs at 340-774-0100, extension 2812. The deadline for submitting applications has been set for Friday, April 26, 2024.
The SFSP ensures that school-aged children ranging from 2 to 18 years old have access to free meals throughout the summer. Moreover, individuals aged 19 and over with a mental or physical disability, as determined by a State or Local Educational Agency, are also eligible to receive free meals through the program, provided they participate in a qualifying school program for the mentally or physically disabled during the school year.
The department emphasized its commitment to non-discrimination in accordance with federal civil rights law and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies. The SFSP does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.
Program information is available in languages other than English, and alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language) can be requested for individuals with disabilities. To file a program discrimination complaint, the USDA provides the AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form online and at USDA offices.
The USDA's assistant secretary for civil rights handles submitted complaints, which can be filed through mail, fax, or email. This initiative reinforces the institution's role as an equal opportunity provider, ensuring that all eligible participants have access to the benefits of the SFSP.
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