Sponsors Sought For Nutrition Program

Low-income children who benefit from free and reduced-price lunches during the school year often lack the same opportunity in the summer.

The state Department of Education estimates that one of every six children in Idaho goes without meals sometime during each month, especially when school is not in session.

That’s why the department is actively seeking sponsors for the Summer Nutrition Program.

Coeur d’Alene School District and the Bonner County School District are among the 35 sponsors statewide. But those sponsors serve only 12 percent of the eligible children, according to state education officials.

School districts aren’t the only organizations able to sponsor the summer program, which is federally funded. City, county or state agencies, or non-profit organizations, all can be sponsors.

The most effective programs are located at a site within walking distance of eligible children.

For more information, write Mary Breckenridge at Child Nutrition Programs, State Department of Education, P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0027. Or call her at (208) 334-3106. Arrangements must be made by May 15 for this summer’s programs.

, DataTimes