New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Ed Wengryn, along with representatives from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service, visited the Pemberton Early Childhood Learning Center in Burlington County to highlight the Summer Food Service Program’s success in New Jersey.
According to a report by the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC) released last year, New Jersey ranks first in the nation for providing summer lunches to children from households participating in school-year lunch programs.
In 2023, nearly five million summer meals were provided to children qualifying for the Summer Food Service Program across New Jersey. This year, there are 1,272 feeding sites and 178 sponsors involved. Districts where at least half of the students qualify for free or reduced prices under the National School Lunch Program can participate.
Pemberton also takes part in the new Summer EBT program, enrolling over 600,000 eligible students in New Jersey. The program offers $120 per child for food purchases during summer months. Notably, New Jersey was the first Mid-Atlantic state approved for this program by USDA for 2024.
The Pemberton Summer Food Service operates at five locations and has served over 6,000 breakfasts and lunches this summer. Approximately 700 children participate in Pemberton School District’s programs, which include a rural non-congregate feeding initiative.
“Summer Food Service provides an opportunity for children and those who are eligible to receive healthy meals throughout the summer,” Secretary Wengryn said. “The commitment of Pemberton Township and the Pemberton School District to administer these meals is a great example of the success that can take place when there is a collaborative effort. The addition of Summer EBT this year provides another avenue for children to access the meals they need during these summer months.”
Barbara Wells, Pemberton Township School District Food Service Supervisor stated: “Even though the school year has ended, the nutritional needs for children still need to be met,” adding that “Hunger does not take the summer off,” emphasizing their work to ensure access to healthy meal options during summer with support from partners.
Initiated in 1976 as part of an extension of the National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service aims at ensuring access to meals for those aged 18 or younger in low-income areas while schools are closed. It also supports individuals over 18 participating in public or nonprofit private programs aiding individuals with disabilities.
The federally funded initiative reimburses organizations serving meals to children residing where at least half qualify for free or reduced-price meals under NSLP guidelines. Most organizations may be reimbursed up to two daily meals—lunch plus either breakfast or a snack.
For more information on becoming a sponsor or learning about Summer Food Service Program details visit http://bit.ly/V233JR; find nearby feeding sites by calling National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY (1-866-348-6479) or texting “Food” to 877-877.
