Although USDA funds the summer program, local organizations make the program work by becoming sponsors that serve nutritious meals and snacks at schools, recreation centers, playgrounds, parks, churches, day camps, summer camps, housing projects, and Indian reservations.

WHITEHOUSE: Children in the Rio Grande Valley Enjoy Summer Food and Fun

Although the USDA predicts retail beef prices will finish the year 3% to 4% higher, that is lower than the gains of 6.4% last year and 10.2% in 2011.

WSJ: Retail Beef Prices Expected to Rise

Presently, no U.S. horse slaughterhouses have been approved for USDA inspections, although several have applied.

FORBES: MoMA Caf�� Chef To Serve Illegal, Tainted Horse Meat?

Although eligible programs participate in the USDA food program, there is a wide variety of food choices that qualify for reimbursement, some of which are not as healthy as others.

WHITEHOUSE: Healthy Food for Kids Is a Matter of National Security

Although there are no horse slaughtering facilities in Oklahoma, the Humane Society said the USDA has received an application for horse slaughter inspection permits from a meat company in Washington, Okla.

NPR: Okla. Governor Signs Horse Slaughter Legislation

Although the U.S. hasn't approved Chinese chicken for human consumption, the USDA is working with China to lift that ban.

WSJ: Dog Treats Come Under FDA Scrunity