Idaho Seeks Community Groups to Sponsor Summer Meal Programs for Kids

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The Idaho Department of Education is seeking community partners to serve as sponsors for the 2026 Federal Summer Food Service Program, now known as the Summer Nutrition Programs for Kids (SUN). The program provides free meals and snacks to children ages 1 to 18 at approved meal sites in eligible low-income areas while school is out for the summer. Eligible sponsors include nonprofit schools, residential camps, government agencies, colleges and universities, libraries, religious organizations, and other nonprofit groups.

Why it matters

Food insecurity remains a challenge across Idaho, particularly in rural communities, and the need for summer meal programs increases when school meal programs are unavailable. The state is looking to expand coverage, especially in rural areas, to ensure children have access to nutritious food during the summer months.

The details

Community partners work with the Idaho Department of Education to operate meal sites and are reimbursed with federal funds for each qualifying meal served. All sponsors must complete an application process and attend required training sessions, which are scheduled for February and March. Applications are due to the Idaho Department of Education by May 1, and approval is required before operations may begin.

• The application process for the 2026 Summer Nutrition Programs for Kids begins in February 2026.
• Training sessions for approved sponsors are scheduled for February and March 2026.
• Applications are due to the Idaho Department of Education by May 1, 2026.

What’s next

The Idaho Department of Education will review applications and approve sponsors before the summer meal program can begin operations in 2026.