FORK Act of 2026
In committeeFeeding Our Rural Kids Act of 2026 or the FORK Act of 2026 This bill establishes a summer meal delivery vehicle pilot program as part of the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). (The SFSP is a federally funded, state-administered program that reimburses providers that serve no-cost, healthy meals and snacks to children and teens at summer sites in low-income communities.) Under the bill, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) must award one-year grants of up to $100,000 for service institutions (e.g., school food authorities) to purchase, retrofit, or repair vehicles to facilitate noncongregate meal distribution. This is meal distribution outside of the typically required group, or congregate, setting (e.g., grab-and-go meal service). Among other things, USDA must give priority to service institutions located in an area in which poor economic conditions exist and that serve a high proportion of students from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. USDA must also ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that service institutions receiving grants are located in different states.
Aug 3, 2026Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
The FORK Act of 2026 establishes a pilot program to provide grants for summer meal delivery vehicles in rural and economically disadvantaged areas. The bill outlines eligibility criteria, grant terms, and reporting requirements, with a focus on transparency and accountability. It authorizes funding for three fiscal years and includes provisions for oversight and technical assistance.