Virgin Islands Now Accepting Applications for Summer Nutrition Program for Children

The Virgin Islands Department of Education’s State Office of Special Nutrition Programs is delighted to announce that applications for the 2024 Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) are now being accepted. The SFSP is dedicated to ensuring that children receive nutritious meals during summer vacation, a critical time when schools are closed and access to healthy food can be limited. This initiative is open to both public and private non-profit organizations keen on serving as program sponsors.

Organizations eager to join this vital program can secure a Sponsor Application Package or gather further details by reaching out to the State Office of Special Nutrition Programs at 340-774-0100, extension 2812. The application deadline is firmly set for April 26, 2024.

Targeted at children aged 2 to 18, the SFSP provides free, nutritious meals throughout the summer period. The program also extends its benefits to individuals over the age of 19 who have a mental or physical disability, as verified by a State or Local Educational Agency, and who participate in a qualifying school program for the mentally or physically disabled during the academic year.

In line with its dedication to inclusivity, the department has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding non-discrimination principles in compliance with federal civil rights laws and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies. The SFSP pledges not to discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex (inclusive of gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or in retaliation for prior civil rights activities.

For those requiring program information in alternative formats or languages, accommodations such as Braille, large print, audiotape, or American Sign Language are available upon request to ensure accessible communication for individuals with disabilities. The USDA also encourages individuals who believe they have faced discrimination in accessing the program’s benefits to file a complaint using the AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, available both online and at USDA offices.

This initiative underscores the commitment of the USDA and the Virgin Islands Department of Education to serving as equal opportunity providers, guaranteeing accessible and nutritious meals for every eligible child during the summer months.