How to Apply

Application instructions and deadlines for applying to Child Nutrition Programs are below. The Application system is housed in the Colorado Nutrition Portal.

Quick Links

Use SSO application instructions below if operating the Seamless Summer Option during school year 2021-22. Please note: 

• SFAs that opt to participate in SSO can provide free meals to all students at any school site. Meals served under the SSO will be reimbursed at the higher Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) rate.
• SFAs participating in SSO will first apply in school year 2020-21. Once the 2020-21 application is approved, sponsors will reapply for school year 2021-22. Important application data will roll over and less data input is required in the 2021-22 application. 
• Contact your assigned point person for program related questions and support with the application. 

Application Instructions

• SSO Application Instructions (PDF)
• SSO Application Training Webinar Recording: an in-depth look at how to apply in the 2021-22 school year. 
  • Recorded on August 12, 2021
  • SSO Application Training- PowerPoint and Presenter Notes (PPT)
• Login to Moodle to access the SSO Application Screen Recording
  • Access Moodle by registering online. 
  • Find the training under 'Colorado Nutrition Portal' and then 'SSO Screen Recording.'

Deadlines

• The 2020-21 SSO application is due Thursday, Sept. 30.
  • This allows claiming for August and September 2021. 
• The 2021-22 SSO application is due Tuesday, Nov. 30.
  • This allows claiminng for October 2021 through the end of the school year. 
• The application approval process can take up to two weeks to complete, especially when participating in multiple child nutrition programs. You will not be able to submit a claim until your renewal application is approved. 

School districts operating the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program or After School Snack Program should refer to the application instructions below to participate in the programs.

Elementary schools are selected for the FFVP annually through the online application process. Priority is given to schools with the highest free and reduced enrollment. Interested schools must submit a completed application by the deadline below. To prepare for the application: market and promote the FFVP to eligible elementary schools, gain support and buy-in from teachers, staff, principals and/or superintendents, and establish an implementation plan that includes service methods and frequency, integration of nutrition education, program marketing and promotion and overall program administration and monitoring.

Schools interested in applying for SMP must submit their application during the annual renewal of applications online. The district will select SMP for the schools that will participate in the Special Milk Program. Camps and Institutions interested in applying for SMP must complete the Non-Pricing Agreement and Policy Statement and submit both to the CDE School Nutrition Unit.

Application for Summer 2021

Sponsors must complete a Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) application in the Colorado Nutrition Portal for operations through Summer 2021. Applications for new sponsors are due by April 15. Applications for returning sponsors are due by May 1. Sponsors currently operating the SFSP, ensure all application information is updated and accurate. Use the following resources to assist with the application: ​

• Application Instructions (PDF)
• Claim Instructions (PDF)
• Application and Claim Training (PDF)
• SFSP application and claim demonstration video
  • Length: 1 hour
  • Professional Standards
    • Key Area: Program Management
    • Learning Code: 3200
• Vended Sponsors: 
  • The Vended Meals Renewal Agreement Template (DOC) is available on the FSMC and Vended Meals Webpage. 

For questions, please contact summermealprogram@cde.state.co.us.

New Sponsor Resources