Dozens of ripe oranges.
Summer Meal Program Application

Summer Meal Program Application

Community organizations can help ensure no one goes hungry by partnering with us to host programs that give children and families the nutrition and resources they need to learn, grow and play.

SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM INFORMATION

One in four children in Cook County is at risk of hunger. During the summer, children who receive free or reduced-price meals at school often lack access to nutritious food and go hungry. The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) provides healthy meals to help fill the gap. The federally funded program enables eligible organizations to serve free meals to children and teens.

PROGRAM MEAL OPTIONS

Program partners can receive up to two types of meals with the option of choosing from breakfast and lunch/supper. Meals will be served congregate style. Partners are required to incorporate best health and safety practices to avoid the spread of viruses and diseases.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Partners must:

  • Be serving meals in the attendance area of a public school in which at least 50% of enrolled students receive a free or reduced-price meal in the National School Lunch Program.
  • Have refrigeration equipment.
  • Serve meals to youth, aged 18 and younger, at no cost to them.
  • Operate program at least 20 consecutive days; serve at least 15 youth per day; and serve at least three days a week. We’ll review participation levels below this standard on a case-by-case basis.
  • Ensure a minimum of two site staff members attend a mandatory virtual training course. At least one trained individual must be on-site supervising each meal service.
  • Be available to accept, inspect, store and serve food using safe food handling practices.
  • Maintain records for every meal service including number of meals received, temperature of milk at delivery and meal service, and number of meals served.

For more information or any questions, please contact the Youth Programs Team at [email protected] or 773-247-3663.

Thank you for your interest in the Food Depository's Summer Meals program! The 2025 summer meals program application has closed. The application for the next summer meals cycle will be released in Spring 2026. Please visit the below link for additional Summer Food Service Programs.

SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAMS