• National School Lunch Program (NSLP) 

• Special Milk Program (SMP) 

• Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) 

• Meals on Wheels for seniors 

2. Regulations 

The program is governed by Arkansas Administrative Code 005.01.05-009 and follows federal regulations under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must be approved by the Arkansas Department of Education or the Arkansas Department of Human Services, depending on the specific program 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Arkansas Department of Education, District Operations, Special Nutrition Programs oversees school-based programs. The Arkansas Department of Human Services, Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education, manages other nutrition programs 

5. Application Process 

Providers must complete an application process through the relevant state agency. For USDA Food Programs, applications can be submitted online.

6. Required Documentation 

Required documentation likely includes: 

• Completed application forms 

• Proof of eligibility to participate in federal programs 

• Menu plans meeting nutritional guidelines 

• Staff qualifications and training records 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The exact timeline is not specified. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

No specific pre-application process is mentioned in the provided information. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While not explicitly mentioned, providers must ensure staff are properly trained to deliver nutrition services according to state and federal regulations. 

10. Additional Notes 

• School nutrition programs must comply with Smart Snacks regulations 

• Meals on Wheels serves seniors aged 60 or older who are homebound and unable to prepare their own meals 

• The Arkansas Child Health Advisory Committee develops nutrition standards annually 

• As of February 25, 2025, Arkansas continues to update and enforce nutrition standards in public schools to combat childhood obesity and promote healthy eating habits.