Participating in the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) as a site is a wonderful way for organizations to support and engage with their community.
As the administrative requirements of the SFSP are rigorous, TDA strongly recommends these organizations new to the SFSP operate their first year as a meal site under an experienced Contracting Entity (CE). These sites are welcome to transition to a CE role after successful participation as a site after a minimum of one year.
Overview of SFSP sites
A site (or meal site) is a location where children eat their meals in a congregate setting. Sites may be located in a variety of settings, including schools, recreation centers, playgrounds, parks, churches, community centers, day camps, residential summer camps, housing projects, and migrant centers, or on Indian reservations.
Sites participate under the sponsorship of a CE that has a contract with TDA. The CE may require the site to sign an agreement with them outlining the site’s responsibilities. SFSP sites do not retain financial or administrative responsibility for the SFSP and do not receive reimbursement for the meals served. The CE provides the meals and ensures all financial and administrative responsibilities are met.
What are a Site's Responsibilities?
Some of the site’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Serve meals to all children 18 years of age and under
- Serve meals that meet the minimum meal pattern requirements
- Count meals as they are served to children
- Provide adequate supervision during the meal service
- Ensure that children eat all meals onsite
- Maintain and promptly submit reports and records that the CE requires
- Report to the CE any changes in the number of meals required as attendance fluctuates
- Report any other problems regarding the meal services
- Comply with civil rights laws and regulations
- Adhere to local health and sanitation regulations
- Attend CE training sessions
Click here to learn more about a site’s responsibilities with USDA’s Site Supervisors’s Guide (both in English and Spanish).
How do I find a CE?
Contact the regional ESC for information on CEs in your area.