The Algona Community School District wrapped up another successful summer with its Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), distributing a total of 14,894 free meals to local children and families during June and July.
Throughout the summer session, the school food service team prepared and served 7,447 breakfasts and 7,447 lunches (3,925 of each meal in June, and 3,522 of each in July).
"The best thing about the program is that we NEVER 'sell out,'" said Jill Nelson, Food Service Program Director. "No one is turned away, and everyone wanting a meal will receive one during the serving days and times."
The SFSP is a federally funded program sponsored primarily by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which provides meal reimbursement funds to cover the cost of the healthy food served. The program is administered locally by the Iowa Department of Education, connecting school districts with federal resources. While the program traces its national roots back to a 1968 pilot, local expansion efforts following a 2000 initiative brought the program to the community. Algona Schools has proudly participated for roughly 15 years.
This year’s program featured an expanded community effort thanks to a partnership with the Algona Public Library, which provided free books and activity worksheets for children attending meal times.
Program organizers emphasize that the summer meal sites are open to the entire community, regardless of income, age, or residence.
"Everyone qualifies! Everyone is welcome and encouraged to participate," Nelson added. "It doesn't matter where you live, what your income is, what your age is... we just want you to take advantage of the opportunity for us to prepare meals for you."
For more information about school nutrition programs or upcoming food service initiatives for the school year, visit the Algona Community School District website or contact the Food Service Department.