The Rochester Area Community Foundation is offering the Summer Meals Capacity-Building Mini-Grants program to increase access to nutritious meals for children and youth in the City of Rochester during the summer months. The initiative supports programs that expand the number of children served and the number of days meals are available when school is out of session. This program aligns with the federally funded Summer Food Service Program administered by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.
Eligible projects for funding include hiring a Summer Meals Volunteer Coordinator or supplemental staff to expand meal service, purchasing capital equipment like tables, chairs, and coolers to enhance service capacity, acquiring recreational equipment to encourage youth participation, and funding additional USDA-approved meals or snacks. The program seeks to support both logistical and engagement-related improvements to maximize participation in summer meal services.
Grants of up to $15,000 are available. Applicants must be an approved partner of the City of Rochester, Rochester City School District, or Foodlink for meal delivery, maintain LEA status with NYSED, or be a 501(c)(3) or 509(a)(1) public organization with prior experience providing reimbursable summer meals. Previous recipients of Summer Meals Mini-Grants are eligible to reapply, though priority may be given to new applicants.
Applications are due by Friday, May 16, 2025. Notifications regarding awards will be made in June 2025. Applicants must use the Community Foundation's grant portal to apply. Final grant payments are contingent upon confirmation of site approval by the sponsor and NYSED. Applicants may contact Nikia Washington at the Rochester Area Community Foundation by email or at 585-341-4376 for questions or further information.
