The Tennessee Department of Human Services application process for the 2026 Summer Food Service Program is open until May 1.
Organizations interested in becoming a program sponsor are urged to apply. The program aims to ensure that Tennesseans 18 and younger who benefit from school meal programs continue to have access to nutritious meals during the summer months.
The state annually partners with food sponsors across the state to provide these meals. The program traditionally runs from the end of May to August when the next school semester begins.
“In 2025, the Summer Food Service Program, provided more than 7 million meals to children across Tennessee,” said state Department of Human Services Commissioner Clarence H. Carter.
“That impact is only possible because of strong community partners who step up to serve,” he added. “As we open the 2026 application cycle, we encourage organizations across the state to join us in this vital work and help us ensure every child has access to nutritious meals during the summer months.”
Any organization interested in becoming a Summer Food Service Program sponsor or becoming a meal site under an existing sponsor is asked to email TNSFSP.DHS@tn.gov with their intention.
Visit https://tinyurl.com/TNSummerFoodService for more information on the Summer Food Service Program.
In addition to children of school age, adults 19 and older with a mental or physical disability are eligible to receive free meals if they participate in a school program established for individuals with disabilities during the prior school year.
Parents interested in finding a Summer Food Service Program feeding location near them are encouraged contact the TDHS Summer Food Service Program main line at 615-313-4749 as the end of the school year approaches.