Summer Meals Matter: Get Prepared for Summer
December 2, 2025
Why Summer Meals Matter and Why the SFSP Remains Essential
When the school year ends, millions of children lose access to meals they rely on during the school year. For many families, summer means higher food costs, limited childcare options and fewer community resources. That gap places real strain on households that are already balancing tight budgets.
The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) exists to close that gap. It ensures that children and teens continue receiving nutritious meals throughout the summer months, regardless of income or zip code. These meals do more than address hunger, they support healthy growth, reduce stress on families and help children stay engaged in safe, supportive environments.
SFSP sites often become community hubs: parks, libraries, recreation centers, schools and nonprofits that offer more than food. They provide safe spaces, enrichment activities and a sense of belonging. In rural areas, where access to groceries and transportation can be limited, SFSP sites are often one of the only reliable sources of healthy meals all summer long.
This work depends on collaboration. Sponsors, state agencies, local partners and community organizations each play a critical role in planning, staffing, monitoring and delivering high-quality meals. Strong coordination directly impacts meal access, participation and program integrity.
Get Ahead for Summer!
To help programs prepare for summer 2026, we’re hosting a virtual multisession Summer Meals Spotlight on January 22nd. This online gathering will bring together sponsors, state agencies, operators and community partners to walk through the latest guidance, discuss best practices and share strategies that strengthen SFSP operations.
Topics will include:
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What it takes to participate in a USDA Summer Food Program
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Best practices in SFSP
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Building relationships with partners to expand your program's impact
- An overview of the SFSP
Whether you’re new to Summer Meals or looking to refine your approach, this event offers practical guidance and peer insights that can help you build a stronger summer meals program for your community.
Summer may feel far off, but preparation starts now. Reserve your spot for our January 22nd virtual Summer Meals Spotlight to ensure your program has the tools, guidance and support it needs to serve children effectively this coming season.
SCHEDULE AT-A-GLANCE
Schedule presented in the Eastern time zone.
THURSDAY, JAN. 22, 2026
11:00 am – 11:30 am | Launch Your SUN Meals Program
11:45 am – 12:45 pm | SUN Meals in Action: Best Practices in Summer Meal Service
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm | TBD
ON DEMAND
SFSP Overview