Since 2002, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has simplified the process for National School Lunch Program Sponsors to offer meals to children during the summer through the development of a "Seamless Summer Feeding Waiver." With the Child Nutrition Programs and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 the waiver became permanent and is now the "Summer Seamless Option."

The Summer Seamless Option combines features of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), the School Breakfast Program (SBP), and the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). The purpose of the Option is to feed children in low-income areas during the summer months.

The Option reduces paperwork and administrative burden normally associated with the SFSP. Option sites must be located in areas where 50 percent or more of the children qualify for free or reduced price school meals.