Cherokee Nation
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- Website: Summer EBT Program
- Hotline: 539-234-3265 or 800-256-0671 ext. 5275
- Email: wicsebtc@cherokee.org
DATE: | April 27, 2011 | |
MEMO CODE: | SP 31-2011 | |
SUBJECT: | Frequency of Direct Certification Matching Activities Beginning in School Year 2011-2012 | |
TO: | Regional Directors Special Nutrition Programs All Regions |
State Directors Child Nutrition Programs All States |
The interim rule, Direct Certification and Certification of Homeless, Migrant and Runaway Children for Free School Meals, was published on April 25, 2011. One of the provisions in this rule concerns the frequency of direct certification matching activities with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and is effective July 1, 2011. The provision, found at 7 CFR 245.6(b)(3), requires that direct certification matching activities with SNAP be done at least three times per school year:
As discussed in the preamble of the interim rule, the purpose of the additional matching activities is to facilitate participation of children in the school meals programs and to work towards on-going direct certification with SNAP through computer matching.
We recognize that this is a very short deadline and want to assure state agencies and local educational agencies (LEAs) that we know that increasing the frequency of direct certification matching activities may need to be phased-in for some locations. We expect those state agencies and LEAs unable to accomplish SNAP direct certification at least three times in School Year (SY) 2011-2012, to work toward this goal and comply with the requirement no later than SY 2012-2013. Appropriate actions for SY 2011-2012 include:
We are working with SNAP to facilitate compliance with the requirement for increasing the frequency of direct certification matching activities. SNAP will work with their state agencies to promote cooperation. State agencies should direct any questions concerning this guidance to the appropriate FNS regional office. Regional offices should contact the Child Nutrition Division.
Cindy Long
Director
Child Nutrition Division
The contents of this guidance document do not have the force and effect of law and are not meant to bind the public in any way. This document is intended only to provide clarity to the public regarding existing requirements under the law or agency policies.