​​Special Nutrition Program Bulletin – Supporting Students and USDA Letter

• USDA Letter of Suspended Funding
• ​How Can Schools and Sponsors Help Students Outside of USDA Child Nutrition Programs
• Reminder: Meals During Online Learning

USDA Letter of Suspended Funding

​We are aware of a letter that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) sent to the State of Minnesota on Friday, January 9, regarding USDA funds coming into Minnesota. We are continuing to analyze the exact implications of the latest attempted funding freeze; however, many of us know from recent experience what federal uncertainty means for our work and for our students. The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) will provide updates as we learn more about what this latest federal action means for all of us.

​MDE remains committed to ensuring every student has access to meals and receives a world-class education. We will continue to advocate for the resources our students need to succeed.

​How Can Schools and Sponsors Help Students Outside of USDA Child Nutrition Programs

​We are grateful to the efforts of our sponsors in ensuring children in Minnesota have access to healthy nutritious meals and food. USDA Child Nutrition Programs are federal programs that have strict regulations that require the funds and meals to be managed within certain parameters. Below you will find ways to assist and answers to questions you may have around these programs.

​Resources

• ​The Department of Children Youth and Families has a webpage dedicated to food security resources and updates to federal funding.
• ​Families can find food resources near them by visiting the Second Harvest Website or The Food Group - Hunger Solutions webpage.
• ​Organizations can contact Every Meal to start a Weekend Meal Program. This is not a USDA-funded program.
• ​Sponsors can work with local nonprofits or businesses to collect and distribute nonperishable food items to students/families.
• ​MDE provides Share Table Guidance to help reduce food waste in schools.
• ​The USDA provides guidance on food donation programs.

Reminder: Meals During Online Learning

​Schools that offer both online and in-person learning to students can use the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP). When serving meals using these programs, schools must follow federal regulations, including congregate meal service and scheduled mealtimes. Students who temporarily take part in online learning can attend the meal service at the school; however, current federal regulations do not allow students to take meals home.

​If schools encounter unexpected school closures with no learning taking place, please contact Food and Nutrition Services (mde.fns@state.mn.us).​

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