Analysis 

of 

Summer Food Service Program 

and 

Food Needs of Nonparticipating Children 

February 2006 
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 
Analysis of Summer Food Program 

and 

Food Needs of Nonparticipating Children: 

Final Report

Authors:

Felton & Harley Associates, Inc. 

& Westat 

Submitted by: Submitted to:

Felton & Harley Associates, Inc. Office of Analysis, Nutrition, and Evaluation 

8601 Georgia Avenue USDA, Food and Nutrition Service 

Silver Spring, MD 20910 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 1014 

 Alexandria, VA 22302-1500 

Project Directors: Project Officer: 

Sheila Harley Fred Lesnett 

 

This study was conducted under Contract number 43-3198-3-0098 with the Food and Nutrition Service. 

This report is available on the Food and Nutrition Service website: http://www.fns.usda.gov/oane.

Suggested Citation:

“Analysis of Summer Food Program and Food Needs of Nonparticipating Children: Final Report,” Speical 

Nutrition Program Report Series, No. CN-06-SFSP, Project Officer: Fred Lesnett. U.S. Department of 

Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Office of Analysis, Nutrition, and Evaluation, Alexandria, VA: 

2006. 

United States Food and 

Department of Nutrition 

Agriculture Service 

February 2006

Special Nutrition Programs

Report No. CN-06-SFSP
iii 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Chapter Page

 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................. 1 

1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................... 1-1 

2 SITE AND SAMPLE SELECTION................................................................ 2-1 

2.1 Select geographic area ........................................................................ 2-1 

2.2 Select and recruit school districts ....................................................... 2-3 

2.2.1 Contact food service coordinators....................................... 2-4 

2.2.2 Recruit school district superintendents ............................... 2-4 

2.3 Recruit elementary schools................................................................. 2-4 

2.4 Recruit households.............................................................................. 2-5 

2.5 Select SFSP sites for in-person interviews ......................................... 2-6 

3 QUESTIONNAIRE DEVELOPMENT........................................................... 3-1 

3.1 Study questionnaires........................................................................... 3-1 

3.1.1 Screener questionnaire ........................................................ 3-1 

3.1.2 Telephone questionnaires.................................................... 3-2 

3.1.3 In-Person questionnaires ..................................................... 3-3 

3.2 Pretest questionnaires ......................................................................... 3-4 

4 HIRE AND TRAIN INTERVIEWERS........................................................... 4-1 

4.1 Hire interviewers................................................................................. 4-1 

4.2 Train telephone and in-person interviewers........................................ 4-1 

4.2.1 Training materials ............................................................... 4-2 

4.2.2 Training methods ................................................................ 4-2 

5 DATA COLLECTION METHODS AND RESPONSE RATES.................... 5-1 

5.1 Household screening........................................................................... 5-1 

5.2 Telephone interviews.......................................................................... 5-1 

5.3 In-Person interviews ........................................................................... 5-2 

6 DATA PROCESSING METHODS................................................................. 6-1 
iv 

TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) 

Chapter Page

7 FINDINGS....................................................................................................... 7-1 

7.1 Demographic characteristics of parents and guardians: marital status, 

employment, and education ................................................................ 7-1 

7.1.1 Marital status....................................................................... 7-1 

7.1.2 Employment ........................................................................ 7-2 

7.1.3 Education ............................................................................ 7-3 

7.2 Demographic characteristics of children ............................................ 7-3 

7.2.1 Age and gender ................................................................... 7-3 

7.2.2 Race and ethnicity............................................................... 7-3 

7.3 Are households of qualifying children aware of the Summer 

Food Service Program sites in their local areas? ................................ 7-4 

7.4 What are the reasons for children’s nonattendance at SFSP sites?..... 7-5 

7.5 Are the nutritional needs of children who participate in the free or 

reduced-price school breakfast and lunch programs met during 

the summer? Are qualifying children who do not participate in 

SFSP food insecure or hungry? .......................................................... 7-7 

7.6 Are there differences in the parent or guardian’s perception of the 

household’s food situation during the school year versus the 

summer, for participating and non-participating households?............ 7-8 

7.7 What are the perceptions of parents and guardians about their 

children’s eating patterns during the summer, and their thoughts 

on what is desirable in a summer food service program for 

children? ............................................................................................. 7-10 

7.7.1 Non-participating households ............................................. 7-10 

7.7.2 Participating households ..................................................... 7-11 

7.7.3 Importance of a summer food program to non-participants 7-11 

7.8 What were the feeding arrangements for households with children 

who did not attend an SFSP site and the summer feeding 

arrangements for households who participated in the SFSP when 

the program was not in session? ......................................................... 7-12 

7.8.1 Non-participants.................................................................. 7-13 

7.8.2 Participants’ feeding arrangements when the program 

was not in session................................................................ 7-13 
v 

TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) 

Chapter Page

7.9 Are parents satisfied with the feeding arrangements they have for 

their children during the summer? ...................................................... 7-14 

7.10 What could parents or guardians of children who do not 

participate in an SFSP do to improve their children’s eating 

arrangements or the kinds of food they eat for breakfast and 

lunch during the summer months? What could parents or 

guardians of children who do participate in an SFSP site do 

when the program is not in session? ................................................... 7-14 

7.11 What are the child care arrangements for SFSP-eligible children 

if or when they are not participating in SFSP? ................................... 7-16 

8 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS .............................................................. 8-1 
vi 

TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) 

List of Tables 

Table Page

2-1 Lists for sampling, by elementary school ........................................................ 2-5 

3-1 Question domains included in the telephone questionnaires, by type of 

 questionnaire.................................................................................................... 3-2 

3-2 Question domains included in the in-person questionnaires, by type of 

 questionnaire.................................................................................................... 3-4 

5-1 Number and percent contacted for screener and telephone interviews, 

 by geographic area ........................................................................................... 5-1 

5-2 Eligibility criteria for in-person interview, based on telephone interview 

 responses.......................................................................................................... 5-3 

5-3 Number of completed in-person interviews, by mode, by geographic 

 area................................................................................................................... 5-4 

6-1 Number of questionnaires processed, by questionnaire type........................... 6-2 

7-1 Marital status, employment, and education of the respondents ....................... 7-2 

7-2 Age, gender and race and ethnicity of the children in the sample ................... 7-4 

7-3 Percentage of households that did not participate in an SFSP but attended 

 a summer program that provided breakfast or lunch ....................................... 7-5 

7-4 Reasons children did not participate in any summer program 

 (TNF households) ............................................................................................ 7-6 

7-5 Parents’/guardians’ perceptions of food insecurity among participant 

 households and different groups of non-participant households ..................... 7-8 

7-6 Differences in the parent’s or guardian’s perceptions of the household 

 food situation during the school year versus the summer, for participant 

 and non-participant households ....................................................................... 7-9 

7-7 Perceptions of parents and guardians about their children’s eating patterns 

 during the summer ........................................................................................... 7-10 
vii 

TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) 

List of Tables (continued) 

Table Page

7-8 Feeding arrangements for households with SFSP participants when 

 program is not in session versus summer arrangements for households 

 with children who did not participate in the SFSP........................................... 7-12 

7-9 Child care arrangements for households of children participating in SFSP 

 during periods when SFSP is not in session, and for households with children 

 who did not participate during the summer of 2004 ........................................ 7-16 
viii 

TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) 

List of Figures 

Figure Page

2-1 SFSP Study Design.......................................................................................... 2-2 
ix 

TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) 

List of Appendices 

Appendix Page

A FIELD INTERVIEWER TRAINING MANUAL ........................................... A-1 

B DESCRIPTION OF THE FOOD SECURITY INDEX................................... B-1 

C ATTACHMENTS............................................................................................ C-1 

C-1 Proposed sites for analysis of the USDA SFSP 

C-2 Food service coordinator (FSC) followup letter 

C-3 Supporting statement on SFSP survey 

C-4 School district superintendent letter 

C-5 Elementary school principal letter 

C-6 Parent letter from principal 

C-7 Parent letter from F&H 

C-8 SFSP site director letter 

C-9 Study screener 

C-10 Telephone non-participant, not familiar (TNN) questionnaire 

C-11 Telephone non-participant, familiar (TNF) questionnaire 

C-12 Telephone participant (TP) questionnaire 

C-13 In-person, non-participant (IN) questionnaire 

C-14 In-person, participant (IP) questionnaire 

C-15 Training agenda 

C-16 Self-paced home study 

C-17a, b Training exercises 
1 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

The Analysis of the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and Food Needs of Nonparticipating Children was designed to determine why children who attended elementary school during 

the 2003-2004 school year and were eligible for free or reduced-price meals did not participate in SFSP. 

For the purposes of this report, children who are eligible for free or reduced-priced meals will be referred 

to as “SFSP-eligible children.” The target sample for this study was a nonprobability sample of 200 

households with elementary school-aged, SFSP-eligible children. Results of the survey cannot be 

generalized nationwide due to the limited sample size and the restricting of sampling to households in 

areas of Miami, FL; Kansas City, MO; Oakland, CA; and Salisbury, MD. Eighty-three percent of the 

households included non-participating SFSP-eligible children while 17 percent included participating 

SFSP-eligible children. The research questions addressed by the study and the findings are: 

1. Are households of qualifying children who do not participate in the SFSP aware of the 

SFSP? If yes, what are the reasons for non-participation? 

More than half of the parents or guardians whose children were non-participating but SFSP 

eligible during the previous school year were not aware of SFSP sites in their areas. Among the 55 

parents or guardians who were aware of sites but did not send their children, 23 (42%) had chosen a 

different summer program. The others gave various reasons why the SFSP program they knew about did 

not meet their needs. 

2. Are qualifying children who do not participate in SFSP food insecure or hungry? Is 

this different from the situation when the regular school year is not in session? 

Households with non-participating SFSP-eligible children that did not know about a local 

SFSP site were more likely than others to be classified as moderately or severely hungry, according to a 

Food Security Index developed from the USDA Guide to Measuring Household Food Security. Most 

parents or guardians were about evenly divided between their belief that their children ate more healthy 

and balanced food in the summer vs. the regular school year. However, a small percent believed that their 

children ate better in the summer. They did not feel, however, that they had access to more food or to 

more of any specific type of food during the school year in contrast to summer. 

3. Are the perceptions and attitudes about the eating patterns of SFSP-eligible children 

different for households with non-participating children compared to families with 

children participating in SFSP? 
2 

Parents or guardians with participating SFSP-eligible children relied heavily on the program 

to provide breakfast (79%) or lunch (91%) for their children. Parents of non-participating SFSP-eligible 

children thought it was important for a summer program to provide breakfast and lunch for their children. 

Virtually all of the respondents who did not know about a SFSP site thought that it was important for a 

program to provide both breakfast and lunch; most of those familiar with a site, although their children 

did not participate, did also. When parents were asked what they could do to improve their children’s 

eating arrangements and the kinds of food they eat during the summer months, most demonstrated an 

awareness of food choices that are considered to be healthy and claimed that, if they could, they would 

provide healthier food – “rich in vitamins,” “more fruit and vegetables,” “baked foods instead of fried,” or 

“less fast food or junk food.” 

4. What are the feeding arrangements for SFSP-eligible children if, or when, they are not 

participating in SFSP? 

Most parents, when queried in person, thought that their children were fed properly even 

after the program was over for the summer, and were satisfied with the feeding arrangements for their 

children even when the program was not in session. During the in-person interview, 18 of the 19 

respondents with participating SFSP-eligible children indicated that they had no problem feeding their 

children when the program was not in session. 

5. What are the child care arrangements for SFSP-eligible children if, or when, they are 

not participating in SFSP? 

Over half of mothers took care of their children themselves when or if they were not 

participating in the SFSP. Other caretakers included day care centers, summer schools, camps, and 

individuals known to the family. About 20 percent of respondents indicated that there were periods of 

time during the day when no one was available to watch the child, and most thought this was a problem. 

The SFSP clearly is important to households with SFSP-eligible children who participate in 

the program. Most of these households rely on the program to provide breakfast and lunch for their 

children. Virtually all households with non-participating SFSP-eligible children would like their children 

to have access to a summer program that provides breakfast and lunch. More information about the SFSP 

sites, perhaps presented through the schools, might be a reasonable approach for raising rates of 

participation. States should also be encouraged to solicit the participation of all qualified summer food 

providers for children into the Summer Food Program, as either sponsors or operators of summer sites 

under a SFSP sponsor. 
3 
1-1 

1. INTRODUCTION 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) administers the 

Child Nutrition Programs that provide balanced meals and snacks for eligible children who are 0 through 

18 years old. The two largest programs, the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School 

Breakfast Program (SBP), make meals and snacks available to children who attend public and not-forprofit private schools. In fiscal year 2004, the NSLP provided lunch and after-school snacks during the 

regular school year to about 29 million students in 100,000 schools, and the SBP provided breakfast to 

nearly 9 million students in 70,000 schools nationwide. The programs provide free and reduced-price 

meals to about 16 million qualifying children based on family size and income. Children in households 

earning at or below 130 percent of poverty qualify for free meals. Children in households earning 

between 130 and 185 percent of poverty qualify for reduced-price meals. 

The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), established in 1968, was designed to cover the 

summer months when children who are eligible for the free or reduced-price meals under NSLP and SBP 

do not have access to the programs because they do not attend summer school. During the summer 

months, federally funded meals are available through the SFSP at state-approved sites. A “site” is a 

physical location that provides SFSP meals and snacks during a regularly scheduled time period. 

There are a number of differences that affect participation in SFSP compared to NSLP/SBP. 

For example, the NSLP/SBP are available in schools nationwide, whereas the SFSP is offered primarily 

in areas with high concentrations of low-income children. In addition, school is mandatory so children 

have easy access to the NSLP/SBP, whereas SFSP is voluntary so parents may not be aware of the 

program. Furthermore, schools are required to provide transportation for students while SFSP sites are not 

required to offer transportation. Finally, school hours of operation often coincide with parent work 

schedules, while SFSP hours vary, which may make it inconvenient for some parents. 

Despite these differences, FNS believes that SFSP enrollment can be increased and designed 

this study to identify the reasons why children in eligible families are not participating in SFSP and how 

the program could be improved to increase participation. In 2004, FNS awarded Felton and Harley (F&H) 

a contract to conduct the Analysis of Summer Food Service Program and Food Needs of Nonparticipating Children. F&H subcontracted with Westat to conduct this study. 
1-2 

This study sought to answer a number of analytic questions to better understand the 

characteristics, patterns, perceptions, and attitudes of households with eligible children that do not 

participate in the SFSP and how they differ from those of households that do participate, including: 

1. Are households of qualifying children who do not participate in the SFSP aware of the 

SFSP? If yes, what are the reasons for non-participation? 

2. Are qualifying children who do not participate in SFSP food insecure or hungry? Is 

this different from the situation when the regular school year is in session? 

3. Are the perceptions and attitudes about the eating patterns of SFSP-eligible children 

different for households with non-participating children compared to families with 

children participating in SFSP? 

4. What are the feeding arrangements for SFSP-eligible children if, or when, they are not 

participating in SFSP? 

5. What are the child care arrangements for SFSP-eligible children if, or when, they are 

not participating in SFSP? 

This report consists of eight chapters and three appendixes. The main body of the report 

discusses sample selection, questionnaire development, interviewer hiring and training, data collection 

and processing, findings, and conclusions. Appendix A is the training manual. Appendix B is a 

description of the Food Security Index. Appendix C contains attachments for the study including 

descriptive materials, letters, questionnaires, and training materials. 
2-1 

2. SITE AND SAMPLE SELECTION 

The sample of households was recruited from lists of children (or their parents or guardians) 

that qualified for free or reduced-price school meals at targeted elementary schools in four geographic 

areas of the country. The study team began the sample selection process in February 2004 and finalized it 

in June 2004. First, appropriate geographic areas, based on established criteria, were selected using the 

USDA SFSP Map Machine and U.S. Census data. Then, within each geographic area the largest school 

district was selected using the U.S. Department of Education Common Core of Data database.1

 Finally, 

with the help of the school district’s Food Service Coordinator (FSC), appropriate elementary schools 

were recruited. The sample selection process is described in detail in the following sections. Sample 

selection and other components of the study design are represented in Figure 2-1. 

2.1 Select Geographic Area 

The USDA Summer Food Service Program Map Machine (http://www.ers.usda.gov/data/sfsp) 

was used to identify four geographic areas that contained SFSP sites. The SFSP Map Machine is an 

Internet-based mapping utility that profiles SFSP sites using characteristics from both the Census tract in 

which they are located and neighboring schools. This utility integrates Census data, SFSP participation 

records, and Common Core Data to provide visual displays of SFSP sponsors and sites in geographic 

relation to concentrated areas of child poverty. Geographic areas were identified that contained at least 

one SFSP site and represented a mix of the following characteristics: 

 Regions of the country; 

 Urban and rural areas; 

 Large metropolitan areas and small towns; 

 High and low incomes; and 

 Race and ethnicity. 

 

1

 U.S. Department of Education National Center for Education Statistics statistical database of information concerning local education agencies. 
2-2 

Identify Geographic Areas

Identify Largest School District within Geographic Area

Identify Elementary School within 

School District with help of FSC

Identify SFSP Site(s) 

in Local Area

Obtain List of Names and Contact Information from Elementary School of Children in HHs qualifying 

for Free or Reduced-Price NSLP/SBP (1,951 names)

Send Advance Informational Letter to HHs

Contact superintendent with help of FSC

Contact Food Service Coordinator (FSC) in each School District

Administer Telephone Screener (284 screeners)

Eligible? NO END

Meet criteria for 

In-person 

Interview?

END

Pay Incentive

Administer TNN Administer TNF Administer TP

YES

Administer IN Administer IP

LEGEND

Telephone Interviews:

TNN - Non-Participant, Not Familiar 

with SFSP Sites

TNF - Non-Participant, Familiar with 

SFSP Sites

TP - Participant

In-person Interviews:

IN - In-person Non-participant

IP - In-person Participant

YES

END

Send Followup Letter to HHs

NO

Figure 2-1. SFSP Study design 
2-3 

The F&H team proposed 12 geographic areas to FNS that met the established criteria. These 

areas included Phoenix, Arizona; Little Rock, Arkansas; Fresno or San Diego, California; Denver, 

Colorado; Tampa or Miami, Florida; Indianapolis or Gary Indiana; Kansas City or Springfield Missouri; 

Omaha, Nebraska; New York, New York; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Pittsburgh, Sunbury, or 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Lubbock or San Antonio, Texas. In collaboration with FNS, four were 

identified for data collection and seven were chosen as alternates. The pertinent demographics for the 11 

areas are presented in Attachment C-1. The four geographic areas and the reasons for their selection are 

shown below. 

 Oakland, California. Oakland, located on the west coast, fulfilled the large city 

criteria and offered the most diverse racial and ethnic population. The percentage of 

African-American, Asian, and Hispanic populations exceeds the national average. 

There were 36 SFSP sites in the Oakland area, housed in both school, communitybased, and faith-based facilities, in both closed and open settings. Additionally, the 

F&H team had established contacts with community-based organizations in Oakland 

as well as identified multilingual, multicultural interviewers living in the area. 

 Miami, Florida. Miami provided a southern location in an urban setting. It offered 

the largest number of SFSP sites (310) and the largest percentage of Hispanics of any 

geographic area considered. Over 224,000 children in the Miami-Dade County School 

District qualified for free or reduced-price school meals in 2003. 

 Kansas City, Missouri. Kansas City provided an urban, Midwest city with a large 

working class population. While neither ethnically diverse nor overwhelmingly low 

income, over 36,000 children qualified for free or reduced-price school meals in 2003. 

The area offered 89 SFSP sites that included school, city, community, and faith-based 

collaborations. In addition, F&H has a regional office in Kansas City and a strong 

relationship with the school system. 

 Salisbury, Maryland. Salisbury provided a small rural location with approximately 

23,000 residents, 40 percent of whom are minorities, and 13 SFSP sites. Of the 9,000 

families in the community, more than 16 percent were living below the poverty line. 

Approximately 29 percent of the households included children under age 18. 

2.2 Select and Recruit School Districts 

After the geographic areas were selected, the next step was to identify the largest school 

district in each area using the Common Core of Data database. To assist with this task the Food Service 

Coordinators in each of the districts were contacted to solicit their support. Finally, the superintendent 

from each school district was contacted, informed about the study and recruited. 
2-4 

2.2.1 Contact Food Service Coordinators 

F&H contacted the FSC in each district by telephone to request assistance with enlisting the 

school district’s cooperation. FSCs were then sent a followup letter to further explain the purpose of the 

study and confirm the established protocol discussed by phone. This letter (Attachment C-2) included an 

overview of the purpose of the study and a request for assistance in identifying schools most likely to 

participate. It also stated that a member of the study team would contact them to discuss the study and 

included contact information for that person whom could provide more information, if needed. Also 

included with this letter was a summary statement (Attachment C-3) that provided background 

information about the Child Nutrition Program and the potential impact the NSLP, SBP, and SFSP 

programs have on the dietary status of low-income children. In addition, the summary described the 

purpose of the research and listed the analytic questions of interest. 

2.2.2 Recruit School District Superintendents 

Using contact information obtained from the FSCs, the superintendent of each school district 

was contacted by phone to discuss the requirements of the study and to obtain approval to contact schools. 

After the phone contact, each superintendent was mailed a followup package of information. The 

followup package included an advance letter from USDA explaining the study and requesting 

participation, a summary of the project, and a sample informational letter for parents or guardians. The 

advance letter (Attachment C-4), signed by the USDA Project Officer, described the study, explained that 

all data would be collected and stored in a confidential manner, thanked the superintendents for their 

assistance, and included contact information for a member of the study team should additional 

information be needed. Through the combined assistance of the FSCs and, in some instances, pre-existing 

relationships with school board members, approval was obtained from each school district to conduct the 

study. 

2.3 Recruit Elementary Schools 

Elementary schools within each district were targeted for recruitment based on the total 

school enrollment and the number of students who qualified for free or reduced-price school meals. The 

FSCs were asked to confirm the data, assist in identifying and contacting the targeted elementary schools, 
2-5 

and in identifying alternate schools. The principals of the targeted schools were first recruited by phone 

and then mailed a packet of materials that included an advance letter, the summary statement, and a 

sample informational letter for the parents or guardians. The elementary school principal recruitment 

letter (Attachment C-5) included an overview of the study, explained that data would be collected and 

stored in a confidential manner, thanked the principals for their assistance, and provided a study contact 

name and number to obtain more information. The six recruited elementary schools that agreed to 

participate were: 

 Oakland, CA – Cox Elementary; 

 Miami, FL – Liberty City Elementary; 

 Kansas City, MO – J.S. Chick Elementary and McCoy Elementary; and 

 Salisbury, MD – Prince Street Elementary and Fruitvale Elementary. 

2.4 Recruit Households 

The FSCs requested that each elementary school provide a list of all students (or parent or 

guardians) that lived in households that qualified for free or reduced-price school meals through the 

NSLP or SBP during the present school year. As shown in Table 2-1, the school lists ranged from 149 

names to 899 names. 

Table 2-1. Lists for sampling, by elementary school 

Geographic area Number of names 

Oakland, CA – Cox Elementary 899 

Miami, FL – Liberty City Elementary 241 

Kansas City, MO – J.S. Chick Elementary and McCoy Elementary 149 

Salisbury, MD – Prince St. Elementary and Fruitvale Elementary 662 

During late May and early June 2004, all households on the list provided by each school 

received an introductory parent letter, signed by the principal. The letters were sent home from school 

with one or more children who resided in the household (Attachment C-6). The letter, printed on school 

letterhead, explained the purpose of the study and the timeframe within which the study was to be 

conducted. It described the respondent burden, explained the right to confidentiality, and provided a tollfree number for questions. The letter requested households’ participation and informed them that they 
2-6 

would be contacted by a member of the F&H/Westat team by telephone in July 2004 to collect some 

information about their child’s feeding arrangements during the summer. 

A second parent letter (Attachment C-7), signed by the study’s project director, was mailed 

to each household a few weeks later to remind parents or guardians about the study and the impending 

interview. The letter summarized the information included in the original letter and reminded the 

households that participation was voluntary and that any information they provided would remain 

confidential. A copy of the original letter from the principal was included. 

2.5 Select SFSP Sites for In-Person Interviews 

The F&H team identified a Summer Food Service Program site in each geographic area that 

was conveniently located to the sample as the location for the in-person interviews. The SFSP site 

directors were mailed a letter (Attachment C-8) that provided background information about the study and 

requested use of space in their facilities during August 2004 to conduct the in-person interviews. The 

letter also provided the name and phone number of a study team member to contact for more information. 
3-1 

3. QUESTIONNAIRE DEVELOPMENT 

3.1 Study Questionnaires 

Three types of questionnaires were developed for the SFSP study: a screener questionnaire, 

telephone questionnaires, and in-person questionnaires. The questionnaires included a combination of 

tested and validated questions as well as new questions specific to this study. Questionnaire development 

began with a literature review to identify existing questions that had been used in other surveys that could 

answer the analytic questions defined by FNS. Following the literature review, potential questions were 

submitted to FNS for final selection. 

The questions of interest were then divided among the telephone and the in-person 

interviews based on three criteria: amount of time to administer the question, the response type, and the 

sensitivity of the questions. It was important to keep the telephone interview to no more than 20 minutes 

to minimize the respondent burden and maintain respondent interest. As a result, all open-ended questions 

that solicited detailed information were included in an in-person interview. In addition, the majority of the 

food security questions were administered as part of the in-person interview because they would likely 

take longer to answer and might result in break-offs due to their sensitive nature. Since the study protocol 

required that the telephone questionnaire be administered to eligible respondents immediately after the 

screener, the screener and telephone questionnaires were included in a single booklet. Each study 

questionnaire was pretested to obtain feedback on its understandability, flow, and usability, and revised 

based on the pretest results. 

3.1.1 Screener Questionnaire 

The screener (Attachment C-9) was designed to identify whether the household was eligible 

to participate in the study by determining, first, whether any children living in the household attended 

elementary school and, second, whether any of those children participated in the NSLP/SBP. Since all 

children on the list from which the households were sampled qualified for free or reduced-priced school 

meals, it was assumed that if the household respondent reported that elementary school children 

participated in the NSLP/SBP, those children received free or reduced-priced meals. The screener then 

classified the eligible households as either participating or not participating in the SFSP, and further subclassified the non-participating households as either “familiar” or “not familiar” with particular SFSP 
3-2 

sites. A matrix grid allowed the interviewer to recruit 80 percent of the sample as non-participants and 20 

percent as participants. 

3.1.2 Telephone Questionnaires 

Three versions of the telephone questionnaire were developed to collect information on the 

three sample groups: Telephone, Non-Participant, Not Familiar (TNN); Telephone, Non-Participant, 

Familiar (TNF); and Telephone, Participant, Familiar (TP). As a means of focusing the interview, the 

questionnaires first identified the elementary school child in the family with the most recent birthday and 

then asked questions specific to that child. Table 3-1 presents the question domains included in each 

version of the telephone questionnaire. 

Table 3-1. Question domains included in the telephone questionnaires, by type of questionnaire 

Telephone questionnaires 

Question domains TP TNF TNN 

1. Child demographics 9 9 9

2. In summer school program? 9

3. Aware or participate in other programs (not SFSP)? 9 9

4. Why not participate in other programs (not SFSP)? 9

5. Why not participate in SFSP programs? 9

6. Important factors for sending to any summer program 9

7. Importance of breakfast/lunch to attending program 

(SFSP or not SFSP) 

9 9

8. Details of summer program (not SFSP) that child attends 9 9

9. Details of SFSP program child attends 9 

10. Food security 9 9 9

11. Did NSLP participation during school year make difference in 

food situation? 

9 9 9

12. Who is responsible for preparing meals in summer? 9 9 9

13. Amount and quality of food child eats at breakfast and lunch 

during summer (when not in SFSP) 

9 9 9

14. Who is responsible for watching child in summer? 9 9 9

15. Child care issues 9 9 9

16. Adult demographics 9 9 9
3-3 

Despite the similarities, each questionnaire contained questions specific to the respondent 

group. These included: 

Telephone Non-Participant, Not Familiar (TNN). The TNN (Attachment C-10) asked 

about other summer programs (not SFSP) the child may have participated in, awareness of and 

participation in other summer programs, reasons child did not attend a summer program, and factors that 

would be important for sending a child to a summer program, such as transportation, safe environment, 

hours of operation, and whether the program provided breakfast and or lunch. 

Telephone Non-Participant, Familiar (TNF). The TNF (Attachment C-11) asked why the 

child did not participate in an SFSP program, details about any other programs (not SFSP) the child 

attended, and awareness of other programs in the community that offered breakfast or lunch. 

Telephone Participant (TP). The TP (Attachment C-12) asked details about the SFSP 

programs the child attended, the importance of SFSP programs for providing breakfast or lunch, and the 

amount and quality of food the child ate in the summer when not in an SFSP program. 

3.1.3 In-Person Questionnaires 

The in-person questionnaire was designed to expand on the telephone interviews to provide 

more detail about why eligible households did not participate in the SFSP program, how they provided 

meals to their children during the summer months, and how the participating households provided meals 

to their children when the SFSP program was not in session. Two versions of the in-person questionnaire 

were developed: In-Person, Non-Participant (IN), and In-Person, Participant (IP). The IN questionnaire 

was used to collect data on both types of non-participating households (“familiar” and “not familiar”) 

because there were no questions specific to either group. Table 3-2 presents the question domains 

included in each type of in-person questionnaire. 
3-4 

Table 3-2. Question domains included in the in-person questionnaires, by type of questionnaire 

In-person questionnaires 

Question domains IN IP 

1. What did you like best about the SFSP? 9

2. Did you do anything special in summer to ensure child ate enough 

and the right kind of food? 

9

3. Did you do anything special in summer to feed child when not in 

SFSP? 

9

4. Was breakfast/lunch a problem (when not in SFSP)? 9 9

5. Ways to improve eating arrangements (when not in SFSP). 9 9

6. What would have to happen to send child to a summer program that 

offers breakfast or lunch? 

9

7. Satisfaction with breakfast/lunch feeding arrangements in summer 

(when not in SFSP) 

9 9

8. Do you think that your child got enough food and the right kinds of 

food in the summer (when not in SFSP)? 

9 9

9. Food security 9 9

Questions unique to the two in-person questionnaires include: 

 In-Person, Non-Participant (IN). The IN (Attachment C-13) asked the respondents 

what it would take for households to send their child to an SFSP summer program; 

and 

 In-Person, Participant (IP). The IP (Attachment C-14) asked households what they 

liked best about participating in the SFSP program. 

3.2 Pretest Questionnaires 

As part of the development process, each questionnaire was pretested to evaluate whether 

the questions were clear, understandable, and not overly sensitive; whether the question flow was 

straightforward and intuitive for the respondents; and whether the instruments were efficient and useable 

for the interviewers. In addition, the screener was examined to ensure that it correctly identified eligible 

households. In January 2004, F&H identified an elementary school in the Washington DC area to 

participate in the pretest. The school provided a list of 51 children attending the school that qualified for 

free or reduced-price school meals through NSLP/SBP, with contact information for their families. The 

parent or guardian of all children on the list received a letter from the principal that explained the study 
3-5 

and informed them that an interviewer would call them in the next several weeks to ask some questions 

about the Summer Food Service Program. The screener and telephone questionnaires were pretested by 

telephone with respondents in six households on February 2-3, 2004. The in-person questionnaires were 

tested both by telephone and in person with respondents in four households during the second week of 

February 2004. 

The pretest findings confirmed that the questionnaires were understandable to respondents 

and could be used to collect the information needed to answer the research questions. However, the 

results suggested that the following changes were needed to improve the survey instruments: 

 Simplify the definition of a “summer school program” to include programs at public 

schools that are for both remedial and enrichment purposes; 

 Delete the question “Did this child receive free or reduced-price meals?” since it was 

a sensitive question for respondents to answer and it was anticipated that the lists from 

elementary schools would include only children who were eligible for reduced-price 

meals through the NSLP/SBP during the 2003-2004 school year;

 Modify the introduction to the screener to encourage participation by better describing 

the purpose of the study and the SFSP; 

 Separate the screener from the telephone questionnaires to make the questionnaires 

easier to handle and reduce the size of the telephone questionnaire booklet; and 

 Make formatting changes and edits to improve flow and understandability. 

Following the pretest a detailed list of findings and recommendations was submitted to FNS 

for approval. All changes were incorporated into the final questionnaires. 
4-1 

4. HIRE AND TRAIN INTERVIEWERS 

4.1 Hire Interviewers 

Eight interviewers were hired to recruit the sample and conduct the telephone interviews, 

two in each of the four targeted geographic areas. The interviewers were identified from the Westat 

interviewer database of several thousand experienced field interviewers with prior work experience on 

other Westat studies. The interviewers were contacted by telephone and hired by F&H based on 

availability and interest. 

The in-person interviewing team consisted of two experienced interviewers who traveled to 

each geographic area to conduct the interviews. One interviewer was a F&H staff member and the other 

was a bi-lingual Ph.D. psychologist who works in California and serves as a consultant on many F&H 

projects. 

4.2 Train Telephone and In-Person Interviewers 

Training sessions for the eight interviewers were conducted on July 12, 2004 using 

telephone conferencing. In addition, the two in-person interviewers and several project staff attended the 

training. The 6-hour training was conducted in two 21⁄2 hour blocks, with a 1-hour working lunch. The 

training sessions and materials were structured around specific competency-based objectives, using a 

variety of teaching strategies to maintain the active involvement of the trainees. Training materials 

(training manual, screener, and questionnaires) were FEDEXed to the interviewers prior to the training. 

The in-person interviewer training was conducted on August 4, 2004 by teleconference. 

Since both interviewers had participated in the telephone interviewer training on July 12, this training was 

designed to familiarize them with the in-person interviews and provide practice in administering the 

interviews. The 2-hour training included a discussion of how to probe open-ended questions in an 

unbiased and unobtrusive manner, two interactive lectures that exposed the trainees to complicated 

scenarios, and a question and answer session. 
4-2 

4.2.1 Training Materials 

The following materials were developed to conduct the SFSP trainings: 

 Training Agenda. The training agenda (Attachment C-15) for both trainings lists the 

training topics hour-by-hour and the amount of time devoted to each topic. The 

agendas served as a guide for the trainer and trainee throughout the training. 

 Field Interviewer Training Manual. The training manual (Appendix A) included an 

overview and the purpose of the study, responsibilities of the interviewers, samples of 

the advance letters, and pretest findings. It also contained the criteria for sampling, 

procedures for contacting participants, confidentiality issues, general interviewing 

techniques, answers to frequently asked questions, and procedures for editing the 

interview and submitting completed work. In addition, the training manual 

incorporated question-by-question specifications for the screener, telephone 

interviews, and in-person interviews. 

 Self-Paced Home Study. The self-paced Home Study (Attachment C-16) was 

designed to familiarize the telephone interviewers with the questionnaires. 

Interviewers completed the 2-hour Home Study using the Field Interviewer Training 

Manual. The Home Study was reviewed during training. 

4.2.2 Training Methods 

Several methods were used to deliver the SFSP interviewer training. These included: 

 Traditional Lecture. This instruction method was used to introduce the study and 

present the background information and purpose. 

 Interactive Lecture. This technique was used to explain the concepts of 

administering the screener, telephone, and in-person interviews. The trainer led the 

trainees through the questions by calling on each trainee to assume the role of an 

interviewer. The trainer played the role of the participant and responded to questions 

from a prepared script. This gave the trainees practice in reading questions, recording 

responses, and probing. During the interactive lecture, the trainer corrected errors 

made by trainees and stressed points that were in the script. The scripts became 

successively more complex and used more difficult protocols as the training 

progressed. During these sessions, trainees were encouraged to ask questions and 

identify areas of confusion. The scripts included references to the training manual, and 

trainees were asked to read portions of the manual aloud for reinforcement. 

 Training Exercises. Two sets of written training exercises (Attachments C-17a and 

C-17b) were used to reinforce the concepts taught during the training. The first 

emphasized the information taught during the screener training and was completed 
4-3 

during the training session. The second exercise reinforced the screener and difficult 

sections of the telephone questionnaires. It was included in the Home Study packet 

and interviewers were asked to complete the exercise at the lunch break during 

training. Both sets of exercises were reviewed and problems discussed during the 

training. 

 Role Play. Role plays were conducted with each interviewer after the training to 

simulate interaction between data collector and the respondent. A trainer, serving as 

the respondent, was assigned two trainees and completed one role play with each. For 

each scenario, one trainee served as the interviewer while the other listened. The 

trainer monitored the role plays, answered questions, and critiqued the interviewers at 

the end of the interview. The scripts were written to present a variety of different 

respondent types and situations. Interviewers had to perform well enough in the 

interview to be certified to begin interviewing. One interviewer completed an 

additional interview before collecting live data. 
5-1 

5. DATA COLLECTION METHODS AND RESPONSE RATES 

5.1 Household Screening 

Households were screened by telephone beginning the last week of July and continued 

through the end of August 2004. The interviewers first introduced the study to the respondent and 

reconfirmed whether any elementary school children lived in the household. If the household included 

elementary school children, the interviewers identified a parent or guardian of those children and asked to 

conduct the interview with that person. If the parent or guardian was not available, they scheduled an 

appointment to call back at a preferred time. The screener determined eligibility and classified each 

household as an SFSP Non-Participant, Not Familiar; SFSP Non-Participant, Familiar; or SFSP 

Participant. The screener took approximately 5 minutes to complete. 

As shown in Table 5-1, the interviewers contacted approximately 53 percent of the sample, 

ranging from 33 percent in the Oakland schools to 100 percent in the Miami, FL schools. Screeners were 

completed with 30 percent of contacted households. 

Table 5-1. Number and percent contacted for screener and telephone interviews, by geographic area 

Geographic area 

Number of households 

contacted 

(% sample) 

Number of completed 

screeners 

(% contacts) 

Number of completed 

telephone interviews 

(% completed screeners) 

Oakland, CA 297 (33%) 87 (29%) 50 (57%) 

Miami, FL 241 (100%) 56 (23%) 49 (88%) 

Kansas City, MO 107 (72%) 65 (61%) 51 (78%) 

Salisbury, MD 392 (59%) 76 (19%) 51 (67%) 

Total 1,037 (53%) 284 (30%) 201 (71%) 

5.2 Telephone Interviews 

Once the interviewers determined that the household was eligible by using the screener, they 

administered the appropriate telephone interview. Most telephone interviews were conducted immediately 

after the screener and the remaining were scheduled for a later time. The interviewers contacted sampled 
5-2 

households in an attempt to complete 50 interviews in their respective geographic areas. A total of 201 

telephone interviews were conducted, distributed as follows: 112 Telephone Non-participant, Not 

Familiar (TNN); 55 Telephone Non-participant, Familiar (TNF); and 34 Telephone, Participant (TP). As 

shown in Table 5-1, telephone interviews were conducted with 71 percent of households for which 

screeners were completed. The response rate for the telephone interview ranged from a low of 57 percent 

in Oakland to a high of 88 percent in Miami. Fifty qualifying households in each geographic area were 

recruited (40 SFSP non-participant and 10 participating households) for a total of 200 households.*

 Of the 

10 SFSP participating households in each geographic area, parents or guardians reported that children 

attended SFSP programs at both public schools and community sites. To assure a sample of participating 

households, a quota of 10 interviews was established in each of the four geographic areas. The 

establishment of a sampling quota for participating households (TP) prohibits the calculation of 

percentages across the three groups of households (TNN, TNF, and TP) in the analysis. 

At the end of the telephone interview, respondents were informed that they might be 

contacted again to participate in an in-person interview. Interviewers noted in the call record if a 

respondent refused the in-person interview. 

5.3 In-Person Interviews 

Households that completed the telephone interview and met the eligibility criteria were 

recruited to participate in a 25- to 30-minute interview administered in person at SFSP sites. These 

interviews were conducted from early August through mid-September 2004. Table 5-2 presents the 

eligibility criteria for each household classification, based on the telephone interview. A total of 148 

households provided at least one of the responses in the table and were eligible for the in-person 

interview. 

The interviewers had difficulty contacting and recruiting households for a number of 

reasons, including disconnected and changed telephone numbers, respondents who would only talk for a 

limited time on their cellular phones due to cost constraints, and irregular household work schedules. In 

addition, some respondents were not aware of the study because they had either forgotten about it or had 

not received the advance letters. The interviewers used various strategies to overcome these challenges, 

 

*

 NOTE: One site completed 49 interviews and two sites completed 51 interviews each. 
5-3 

including tracing techniques such as identifying land-line numbers to contact the targeted respondents at 

their homes, requesting forwarding information on parents or guardians who had moved, and contacting 

the school to assist them in establishing contact with the households. In addition, at the first household 

contact the interviewers asked respondents if the number listed was the best number to use to contact the 

parent or guardian and scheduled times to speak with the intended respondents using the new number. 

Finally, because a number of parents or guardians worked hourly jobs, interviewers staggered the times to 

call respondents to include weekend days, weekday evenings from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., and weekday 

mornings at the schools. In the few instances when these strategies failed, interviewers screened 

additional participants and scheduled in-person appointments to meet the recruitment goals. 

Table 5-2. Eligibility criteria for in-person interview, based on telephone interview responses 

 Household classification 

Telephone interview responses 

Participant 

(TP) 

Nonparticipant 

familiar 

(TNF) 

Nonparticipant not 

familiar 

(TNN) 

1. Important factors in sending their child to a summer 

program included providing breakfast and/or lunch. 9

2. For children that attended a summer program, it was 

very or somewhat important that the program 

offered breakfast and/or lunch. 9

3. The breakfast and/or lunch was a somewhat or very 

important factor in the child attending the SFSP 

program. 9 

4. The household depended on the SFSP program to 

provide breakfast and/or lunch somewhat or very 

much. 9 

5. School breakfast or lunch program during regular 

school year made a difference in household food 

situation. 9 9 9

6. Perceived child ate more balanced meals and 

healthy foods during regular school year. 9 9 9

7. Perceived child didn’t get enough to eat at a typical 

breakfast or lunch during the summer when not in 

SFSP. 9 9 9

8. Perceived child didn’t eat a healthy and balanced 

diet for breakfast or lunch during the summer when 

not in SFSP. 9 9 9

9. Food insecure. 9 9 9
5-4 

Interviewers recruited eligible households in each geographic region. Ninety-two in-person 

interviews were conducted: 73 In-person, Non-Participant (IN) and 19 In-person, Participant (IP). While 

the in-person interviews were scheduled to be conducted at local community sites within the respondents’ 

ZIP Codes, many respondents missed their appointments, citing work, scheduling conflicts, lack of 

transportation, and lack of child care. Interviews were conducted by telephone with over 70 percent of these 

respondents. Table 5-3 presents the number of completed in-person interviews for each geographic area, 

by mode. 

Table 5-3. Number of completed in-person interviews, by mode, by geographic area 

Geographic area 

Total 

eligible 

Total 

completed 

Completed in-person 

(%) 

Completed by telephone 

(%) 

Oakland, CA 32 22 6 (27%) 16 (73%) 

Miami, FL 35 24 1 (4%) 23 (96%) 

Kansas City, MO 38 21 11 (52%) 10 (48%) 

Salisbury, MD 43 25 6 (24%) 19 (76%) 

Total 148 92 24 (26%) 68 (74%) 
6-1 

6. DATA PROCESSING METHODS 

F&H received all completed questionnaires from the field interviewers on a flow basis and 

reviewed them for completeness. Following this review, the screener and data from the five 

questionnaires were delivered to Westat for processing. This processing was completed using Westat’s 

proprietary COED software system that facilitates and standardizes the processing of survey data. The 

system is written in COBOL and PL/I and supports its own “language” for the description of survey 

questionnaires. The COED system was used to develop codebooks for each questionnaire and described 

the acceptable responses and logical interrelationships and defined the column designated file layout for 

each piece of data. The program was also used to print instruction manuals for data editing personnel, 

generate a COBOL program to edit the data for logical consistency, generate program code in SAS for 

data analysis, and prepare product client-ready final documentation. 

The questionnaires were visually edited for completeness and then submitted to Westat’s 

data entry facility in batches. The data entry facility, directed by a manager and assistant manager, was 

staffed by experienced data keyers who are familiar with the special conventions and quality needs of 

survey data processing. The group has 30 data entry stations and a staff of experienced personnel who can 

enter an average of over 9,000 keystrokes per hour. All data were verified by double entry using separate 

operators. 

After keying, machine edit programs were run on batches of keyed data multiple times to 

clean the data. The machine edit program generated by the COED file checked for two types of errors: 

range errors in which response values fell outside a predetermined acceptable range, and logic errors in 

which there was some logical inconsistency between response values, including incorrect skip patterns. 

COED generated edit cycle error listings that indicated the date of the edit, the batch number being edited, 

the cycle number, and the page number. 

The output was sorted into ID order within each batch. For each case, range errors were 

identified by an asterisk under the field that was in error, and logic errors were listed by the check number 

of the violated check. Working with the machine edit program output, the machine editor reviewed the 

edit cycle listing and attempted to resolve problems by pulling the questionnaires and determining 

whether the errors were caused by the interviewer or the keyer. 
6-2 

A machine edit decision log was maintained to document response errors resolved during the 

machine edit. All decisions recorded in this log were routinely reviewed by the coding supervisor. The 

final machine edit check was a run of frequencies and cross-tabulations. When a batch of questionnaire 

data passed the machine edits, programming staff generated marginal frequencies for all variables. The 

coding supervisor reviewed these frequencies for outliers and inconsistencies. In-person open-ended 

questions were reviewed by project staff and similar responses to each question were categorized and 

enumerated. Table 6-1 presents the number and type of questionnaires processed for the SFSP study. 

Table 6-1. Number of questionnaires processed, by questionnaire type 

Type of questionnaire Number processed 

Screener 284 

Telephone Non-Participant, Not Familiar (TNN) 112 

Telephone Non-Participant, Familiar (TNF) 55 

Telephone Participant (TP) 34 

In-Person Non-Participant (IN) 73 

In-Person Participant (IP) 19 

The FNS requested preliminary frequencies for close-ended questions on the screener and 

the telephone and in-person questionnaires. The F&H Team prepared the frequencies, first removing all 

identifying information, and delivered the files to FNS. 
7-1 

7. FINDINGS 

Households with children in elementary school (ages 6-14) who were eligible for the free or 

reduced-price breakfast or school lunch program during the previous school year were sampled for this 

study. In each sampled household, the child with the most recent birthday was the focus of the questions. 

The findings reported in this section are based on completed telephone interviews with parents or 

guardians in TP,1

 TNF,2 and TNN3 households, as well as in-person interviews completed using the IP4

and IN5

 questionnaires. Given the small sample sizes, these findings are not generalizable to the entire 

universe of similar households that were eligible to participate in the free or reduced-price school 

breakfast or lunch program during the 2004-2005 school year. Since the sample is too small for 

generalizations, statistical tests are not appropriate. 

7.1 Demographic Characteristics of Parents and Guardians: Marital Status, Employment 

and Education 

Parents or guardians of the children were asked about their marital status, employment, and 

level of education. In general, parental characteristics were similar across the three groups of 

respondents—those who had a child participating in the SFSP program (TP), those who were aware of 

SFSP sites but did not have a participating child (TNF), and those who were not aware of SFSP sites 

(TNN). 

7.1.1 Marital Status 

A substantial proportion of parents, regardless of whether or not their children participated in 

the SFSP program, had either never married or were divorced, separated, or widowed – over 60 percent in 

 

1

 Telephone, participant familiar (TP). 

2

 Telephone, non-participant familiar (TNF). 

3

 Telephone, non-participant, not familiar (TNN). 

4

 In-person, participant (IP). 

5

 In-person, non-participant (IN). 
7-2 

TP, TNF, and TNN groups (see Table 7-1). Somewhat over a third of all parents or guardians were 

married or living with someone as married (TP: 35%, TNF: 34%, and TNN: 38%). 

Table 7-1. Marital status, employment, and education of the respondents 

Participant 

households 

(TP) 

Non-participant 

households in which 

parents/guardians were 

aware of SFSP sites 

(TNF) 

Non-participant 

households in which 

parents/guardians were 

not aware of SFSP site 

(TNN) 

Demographic 

characteristics of 

respondents Frequency Percent Frequency Percent Frequency Percent 

Marital Status 

 Married/Living as married 

 Never Married 

 Divorced/Separated/ 

 Widowed 

12 

15 

7 

35 

44 

21 

18 

25 

11 

34 

46 

20 

42 

42 

28 

38 

38 

24 

Total 34 100 54 100 112 100 

 

Education of parent or 

guardian 

 Less than 12 years of 

schooling 

 12 years of schooling 

 More than 12 years of 

schooling 

7 

16 

10 

22 

48 

30 

16 

17 

22 

29 

31 

40 

31 

52 

28 

28 

47 

25 

Total 33 100 55 100 111 100 

 

Employment* 

 Respondent employed 

 Spouse/partner employed 

 At least one person in the 

household employed 

20 

8 

22 

59 

67 

65 

31 

16 

40 

57 

84 

73 

66 

30 

77 

59 

73 

69 

*NOTE: Percentages under employment do not add to 100 because categories are not mutually exclusive. 

7.1.2 Employment 

Close to 60 percent of parents or guardians across all three categories of respondents 

indicated that they themselves held a job. Spouses or partners were at least as likely to be employed, at 

rates ranging from 67 percent (TP) to 84 percent (TNF). Nevertheless, only 65-73 percent of households 
7-3 

had at least one employed person, implying that rates of household unemployment were upwards of 25 

percent, with no great difference across categories of households (see Table 7-1). 

7.1.3 Education 

While on the one hand 22 to 29 percent of parents or guardians reported that they did not 

have a high school diploma, on the other hand, 25 percent or more of responding parents or guardians had 

some schooling beyond high school. Among TNF parents, 40 percent reported having more than 12 years 

of education (see Table 7-1). 

7.2 Demographic Characteristics of Children 

The distributions of characteristics of children in the TP and TNF samples were more similar 

than those of the children in the TNN sample with regard to age, gender, race, and ethnicity (see 

Table 7-2). 

7.2.1 Age and Gender 

Children ranged in age from 6 to 14 years. In all three groups, most children were under 12 

years old, with half of the TP and TNF children ages 6-8. Few children were between 12 and 14 years of 

age (3-7 percent). In all three samples, slightly more than half were boys (53% in the TP and TNF and 

57% in the TNN group). 

7.2.2 Race and Ethnicity 

A large majority of the children were black (78% of the children in the TP sample, 80% in the 

TNF, and 60% in the TNN). A larger proportion of children in the TNN sample were white (32%) 

compared to the TNF (16%) and TP (19%) children. Less than a quarter of children were Hispanic (15% 

of the TP children, 13% of TNF, and 21% of TNN children (see Table 7-2)). 
7-4 

Table 7-2. Age, gender and race and ethnicity of the children in the sample 

Participant households 

(TP) 

Non-participant 

household in which 

parents/guardians were 

aware of SFSP sites 

(TNF) 

Non-participant 

household in which 

parents/guardians were 

not aware of SFSP sites 

Characteristics of (TNN) 

child Frequency Percent Frequency Percent Frequency Percent 

Age 

 6-8 17 50 28 51 42 38 

 9-11 16 47 23 42 63 56 

 12-14 1 3 4 7 7 6 

 

Total 34 100 55 100 112 100 

Gender 

 Male 18 53 29 53 64 57 

 Female 16 47 26 47 48 43 

Total 34 100 55 100 112 100 

Race 

 Black 25 78 43 80 64 60 

 White 6 19 9 16 34 32 

 Other 1 3 2 4 8 8 

 

Total 32 100 54 100 106 100 

Hispanic 5 15 7 13 23 21 

7.3 Are households of qualifying children aware of the Summer Food Service Program 

sites in their local areas? 

Less than half (89) of the 200 parents or guardians in households where children were 

SFSP-eligible reported that they were aware of a USDA Summer Food Service Program site (55 TNF 

respondents and 34 TP respondents). Interviewers reported during the in-person interview that 

respondents knew about SFSP sites only after the site names were read to them. Lack of awareness of the 

SFSP was common, therefore, among the respondents. 

The percentage of households with a child attending a non-SFSP summer program that 

provided breakfast or lunch is shown in Table 7-3. Among households not familiar with SFSP sites, 

6 percent (seven households) had children in a school summer food program that provided breakfast and 

lunch. One-fourth of the TNN households and 44 percent of the TNF households reported that their 
7-5 

sampled child attended a summer program that provided breakfast or lunch. These households may have 

chosen a summer food program other than SFSP. However, three-quarters of the TNN households and 

more than half of the TNF households did not send the sampled child to a summer program that provided 

breakfast or lunch even though they had participated in the school breakfast or lunch program during the 

2003-2004 school year. 

Table 7-3. Percentage of households that did not participate in an SFSP but attended a summer program 

that provided breakfast or lunch 

Non-participant households in 

which parents/guardians were 

aware of SFSP sites (TNF) 

Non-participant households in 

which parents/guardians were not 

aware of SFSP sites (TNN) 

Attendance at a summer 

program providing breakfast or 

lunch Frequency Percent Frequency Percent 

Child attended a summer 

program in a public school or 

another program 24 44 28 25 

Child attended a summer 

program in a public school Not asked 7 6 

Child did not attend a summer 

program in a public school or 

another program 31 56 84 75 

NOTE: Row 2 is a subsample of Row 1. 

7.4 What are the reasons for children’s nonattendance at SFSP sites? 

The parents or guardians who were aware of SFSP sites but did not have children attending a 

site were asked why their children did not participate in a Summer Food Service Program. The main 

reason given was that the children were attending a non-SFSP program (42% of the TNF respondents) 

(see Table 7-4). Another 13 percent reported that the child stayed somewhere other than at home during 

the day in the summer. Seven percent said that they had transportation problems and another 7 percent 

thought that the cost to send a child to an SFSP program was too high (Table 7-4). Other reasons given by 

respondents were that the child was sick, the child was not interested or wanted to stay home, the program 

was not open all day, the location was not convenient or easy to get to, or that the child attended summer 

school. 
7-6 

Table 7-4. Reasons children did not participate in any summer program (TNF households) 

Non-participant households in which 

parents/guardians were aware of SFSP sites 

(TNF) (n=55) 

Reasons for not attending an SFSP site Frequency Percent 

Attended another program 23 42 

Staying somewhere else during the day 7 13 

No transportation 4 7 

Cost too much 4 7 

Child not interested 2 4 

Program was not open all day 2 4 

Program was not convenient or easy to get to 1 2 

Attended summer school 1 2 

NOTE: Respondents could provide more than one reason for not attending an SFSP; therefore, responses do not add to 100 percent.

During the in-person interviews, we asked the 73 parents or guardians who responded to the 

IN questionnaire what would have had to happen for them to send their child to an SFSP program. 

Approximately 17 parents or guardians said that convenience and being close to home would be very 

important, while 10 others stated that they would like to see a program that offered academic enrichment 

and activities such as sports. One respondent said, “Hours of operation would have to fit around my work 

schedule. Location is not an issue, but I want activities outside of just academics and make sure there is at 

least one good meal.” Another requirement mentioned was, “A quality program. The one that [my child] 

is in is church-based with volunteers who want to be there. It has academics and field trips. They put the 

money into the programs, not salaries. I want them in activities like that.” Five respondents said that the 

program should provide breakfast in addition to lunch. 

Four parents or guardians said that they did not want to send their children to a summer 

program, because they were home during the summer and wanted to keep the kids at home with them. 

Some of the comments offered by parents were: “I wouldn’t send her because I wouldn’t wake her up or 

want to get up to take her.” Another parent said, “I feel better with my child at home. They run out of 

food and the milk is bad,” while another reported: “He’s fine with my family. I do not even know of 

anything close by.” These responses may indicate that these parents were satisfied with the arrangements 

they had for their children during the summer. About ten reported that they did not know how to enroll 

their children in a summer program offering free breakfast or lunch. This number included parents or 

guardians who said they would like to know where some of these programs were. The SFSP program may 
7-7 

have to provide more publicity and information in these communities, probably through the schools, to 

encourage more families to enroll their children in an SFSP. 

7.5 Are the nutritional needs of children who participate in the free or reduced-price 

school breakfast and lunch programs met during the summer? Are qualifying children 

who do not participate in SFSP food insecure or hungry? 

Using the USDA Guide to Measuring Household Food Security (2000),6

 the study team 

developed an index to measure the parents’ or guardians’ perceptions of food security. A description of 

how the food security index was constructed is included as Appendix B. Some of the questions used for 

this food security scale were included in the telephone interviews and others in the in-person interviews. 

For these reasons, an index could be constructed only for those 92 households responding to both the 

telephone and in-person interviews. 

The food security index classifies households as food secure, food insecure without hunger, 

food insecure with moderate hunger, and food insecure with severe hunger. Respondents were asked 

18 questions about the availability of food and their eating patterns in the 30 days prior to the interview to 

establish their classification. Overall, there was almost no difference between the food security levels of 

respondents from households with a participating child (TP) and those who were familiar with SFSP sites 

but did not participate (TNF), with 63 percent versus 60 percent classified as food secure (see Table 7-5). 

Only one household in each of these two categories was classified as hungry during the last 30 days. 

Households with SFSP-eligible children that did not know about SFSP sites (TNN) in their 

area were the most food insecure group. Of 48 households in the TNN group that completed the food 

security index, 18 were food insecure without hunger, 5 were insecure with moderate hunger, and 2 were 

insecure with severe hunger. 

 

6

 Bickel, Gary, Mark Nord, Cristofer Price, William Hamilton, and John Cook: Guide to Measuring Household Food Security 2000. U. S. 

Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Alexandria, VA. March 2000. 
7-8 

Table 7-5. Parents’/guardians’ perceptions of food insecurity among participant households and 

different groups of non-participant households 

Participant households 

(TP) 

Non-participant 

households in which 

parents/guardians were 

aware of SFSP sites 

(TNF) 

Non-participant 

households in which 

parents/guardians were 

not aware of SFSP sites 

(TNN) 

Level of food security Frequency Percent Frequency Percent Frequency Percent 

Food secure 12 63 15 60 23 48 

Food insecure without 

hunger 6 32 9 36 18 38 

Food insecure with 

hunger, moderate 1 5 0 0 5 10 

Food insecure with 

hunger, severe 0 0 1 4 2 4 

 

Total 19 100 25 100 48 100 

7.6 Are there differences in the parent or guardian’s perception of the household’s food 

situation during the school year versus the summer, for participating and nonparticipating households? 

During the telephone interview, parents or guardians were asked a series of questions 

regarding their household’s food situation during the school year and whether they thought that their 

children ate differently when school was in session. Less than 20 percent of parents or guardians thought 

that their children ate healthier, more balanced meals during the summer (see Table 7-6). The remaining 

parents or guardians in all three categories were divided as to whether the child ate more healthy and 

balanced meals during the school year or the child ate the same year-round. 

Parents or guardians were asked whether, during the school year, their households had 

access to larger quantities of food, more different types of food, more fruits and vegetables, more meat, 

more milk products, more regular meals or less fast food than they did in the summer time. Forty-two 

percent of TP and TNF respondents said that more food was available during the school year, while only 

25 percent of the TNN respondents gave the same response. In response to more specific questions about 

the availability of healthy meals during the school year—namely, the availability of less fast food and 
7-9 

more regular meals—between 16 and 32 percent believed the situation was better when school was in 

session than in the summer, with no differences across categories of households (Table 7-6). 

When asked about the availability of particular food products such as fruits and vegetables 

during the school year versus the summer, relatively small percentages of any category of households 

indicated that foods were more plentiful when school was in session, with the percentages favoring when 

school was in session ranging from only 5 to 13 percent. So, while most parents or guardians thought that 

their children ate better—healthier and more balanced food—during the school year than in the summer, 

or ate at least as well, they did not feel that they had access to more of specific types of food during the 

school year in contrast to summer. 

Table 7-6. Differences in the parent’s or guardian’s perceptions of the household food situation during 

the school year versus the summer, for participant and non-participant households 

Participant 

household Non-participant household 

TP TNF TNN 

Food situation Frequency Percent Frequency Percent Frequency Percent 

Child eats more healthy and 

balanced food during:* 

Regular school year 14 41 25 45 37 33 

Summer 5 15 5 9 20 18 

The same, both school year 

and summer 15 44 25 45 54 49 

TOTAL 34 100 55 99 111 100 

Food situation during the school 

year:** 

More quantity of food 

available 8 42 13 42 16 25 

More different types of food 

available 3 16 10 32 8 13 

More fruits and vegetables 

available 3 16 5 16 11 17 

More meat available 1 5 4 13 4 6 

More milk products 

available 1 5 4 13 5 8 

More regular meals available 4 21 10 32 18 28 

Less fast food available 4 21 5 16 11 17 

*NOTE: Percentages may not add up to 100 due to rounding. 

**Percentages do not add up to 100 because categories are not mutually exclusive. 
7-10 

7.7 What are the perceptions of parents and guardians about their children’s eating 

patterns during the summer, and their thoughts on what is desirable in a summer food 

service program for children? 

More than 90 percent of parents or guardians, regardless of their participation in SFSP or 

their awareness of the SFSP sites, thought that their children got enough to eat at breakfast and at lunch, 

and that they had healthy breakfasts and lunches during the summer (see Table 7-7). 

Table 7-7. Perceptions of parents and guardians about their children’s eating patterns during the 

summer 

Participant household Non-participant household 

TP TNF TNN 

Eating patterns Frequency Percent Frequency Percent Frequency Percent 

Gets enough to eat at breakfast* 33 97 50 91 110 98 

Gets enough to eat at lunch* 34 100 51 93 103 92 

Healthy breakfast 34 100 53 96 109 97 

Healthy lunch 34 100 53 98 106 95 

Depend on the program to 

provide breakfast 27 79 Not asked Not asked 

Depend on the program to 

provide lunch 31 91 Not asked Not asked 

Important for summer program to 

provide breakfast** Not asked 15 71 84 95 

Important for summer program to 

provide lunch** Not asked 22 96 103 99 

*Categories “more than enough to eat” and “enough to eat” were collapsed to arrive at “gets enough to eat at breakfast and lunch.” 

**Categories “very important” and “somewhat important” were collapsed to arrive at “Important for summer program to provide breakfast and 

lunch.” 

7.7.1 Non-Participating Households 

During the in-person interviews, about 24 of the 73 parents or guardians whose children did 

not attend an SFSP program said that they would not do anything different to improve the child’s eating 

arrangements or the kinds of foods they eat during the summer. According to one respondent, the “mother 

made sure the children had healthy food to eat.” About 35 reported that they would not give their children 
7-11 

junk food, and would add more fruits and vegetables to their diets. Four parents or guardians who were 

not participating in the SFSP had difficulty providing nutritious meals during the summer. One person 

said that the family needed to stretch the budget to provide enough healthy food. Another mentioned that 

her child eats well at her mother’s home: “She has a different financial situation than I have. She can 

provide some of the meals that I can’t.” 

7.7.2 Participating Households 

Seventy-nine percent of the TP respondents said that they depended on the summer program 

very much or somewhat to provide breakfast, while 91 percent said that they depended on the summer 

program to provide lunch (Table 7-7). However, programs did not operate for the entire summer. During 

the in-person interviews, the 19 parents or guardians who had children in a program were asked whether 

their children got the right kinds of food for breakfast and lunch when the program was not in session. 

Most parents or guardians thought that their children were fed properly even after the program was over 

for the summer. One respondent said that the lunch her child received could be better, while another said 

that her child got enough and the right kinds of food 80 percent of the time. Only one person said that her 

child never got enough food or the right kinds of food for breakfast and lunch when the program was not 

in session. 

7.7.3 Importance of a Summer Food Program to Non-Participants 

Non-participating parents or guardians were asked whether they thought it was important for 

a summer program to provide breakfast and lunch for their children. A majority of non-participants would 

like a summer program that provided at least one meal. Seventy-one percent of the TNF respondents and 

95 percent of the TNN respondents said that it was very important or somewhat important for a summer 

program to provide breakfast, while 96 percent of TNF and 99 percent of TNN respondents said that it 

was very important or somewhat important for a summer program to provide lunch (see Table 7-7). 
7-12 

7.8 What were the feeding arrangements for households with children who did not attend 

an SFSP site and the summer feeding arrangements for households who participated in 

the SFSP when the program was not in session? 

The questionnaires included questions about feeding arrangements for households with 

children who did not participate in the SFSP, and the arrangements when the program was not in session 

for households that did participate. The mother (and sometimes the father) prepared breakfast and lunch 

in most households (85% of TP, 93% of TNF, and 82% of TNN households) (Table 7-8). Fifteen percent 

of the TP respondents and 13 percent of the TNF respondents reported that grandparents prepared 

breakfast and lunch, while 13 percent of the TNN respondents reported that someone else prepared 

breakfast and lunch for the children. No household reported that the child did not eat breakfast. Most 

parents or guardians reported that the child ate breakfast at home (88% of TP, 75% of TNF, and 87% of 

TNN respondents). 

Table 7-8. Feeding arrangements for households with SFSP participants when program is not in session 

versus summer arrangements for households with children who did not participate in the 

SFSP 

Participant households Non-participant households 

TP TNF TNN 

Feeding arrangement Frequency Percent Frequency Percent Frequency Percent 

Mother prepares breakfast and 

lunch 29 85 51 93 92 82 

Father prepares breakfast and 

lunch 3 9 7 13 8 7 

Sibling prepares breakfast and 

lunch 1 3 3 6 9 8 

Grandparent prepares breakfast 

and lunch 5 15 7 13 4 4 

Other relative prepares breakfast 

and lunch 2 6 5 9 2 2 

Someone else prepares breakfast 

and lunch 3 9 2 4 14 13 

Child eats breakfast at home 30 88 41 75 97 87 

Child does not eat breakfast 0 0 0 0 0 0 

NOTE: Percentages do not add to 100 because respondents could identify more than one person preparing breakfast and lunch. 
7-13 

7.8.1 Non-Participants 

During the in-person interview 63 of the 73 non-participants said that making sure the 

children were fed breakfast and lunch during the summer was not a problem. One respondent said that 

[she] “made sure he ate a real hearty breakfast that would carry him into the day.” Another referring to 

lunch said that she “always stocked up on sandwich stuff, Raman noodles, ravioli, and celery,” while 

another said, “I’m around so it was not a problem to make sure they eat.” Most respondents felt that as 

parents they were responsible for feeding the children. 

Four respondents said that sometimes it was a problem to make sure the children were fed 

breakfast and lunch during the summer. In one respondent’s words, “I just did not have the money. I took 

a part-time job to help provide what they wanted.” Another said, “I would love to buy cereal and things to 

make sure my child has food. Sometimes it is difficult, especially the last seven days, finances make it 

tough.” A third respondent said, “If there is no food, they go to grandmothers.” Still another parent or 

guardian, referring to breakfast, said, “by the end of the month food stamps are out and [I] buy cereal 

while another said “they [the children] prefer American food and I am from the South Pacific. They do 

not always like the food I prepare.” Four respondents said that it was a problem to make sure the child 

was fed breakfast during the summer while three felt the same way about lunch. 

7.8.2 Participants’ Feeding Arrangements When the Program was not in Session 

During the in-person interview, 18 of the 19 respondents with participating children stated 

that they had no problem feeding their children when the program was not in session. One respondent 

said, “I make sure I have what we need. We are big cereal eaters so I keep plenty of it around. When I’m 

feeling a little lazy, he can eat cereal until I come down to make breakfast.” Another said, “My son knows 

how to make basic stuff like toast, packaged oatmeal, and cereal. I’ll make him breakfast, but he also 

knows how to make his own breakfast.” A third said, “It was a short period of time between the program 

end and school.” Only one respondent reported sometimes having a problem making sure the children 

were fed when the summer program was not in session. “Sometimes they do not get up early enough and 

miss out on breakfast. I usually call home to check.” 
7-14 

7.9 Are parents satisfied with the feeding arrangements they have for their children during 

the summer? 

During the in-person interview, the 73 parents and guardians whose children did not 

participate in an SFSP program were asked how satisfied they were with their children’s summer feeding 

arrangements. Fifty-five parents and guardians said they were satisfied with the feeding arrangements for 

breakfast and lunch. Several said they were “satisfied because they ate at home.” One respondent said 

“They were fine. He [child] did not like them. He always wants to eat junk food. I was satisfied.” One 

respondent said that she was satisfied with the feeding arrangements but the children “sat around the 

house all summer [because] the programs are too far away and they charged for the only programs 

nearby, like Kid Connection.” One respondent who was not satisfied said, “I was not very satisfied, but I 

did not have a lot of options. I have to work and do not have a lot of money. Next summer I plan on 

sending my children to a program but I do not know of any this summer.” 

Respondents whose children attended an SFSP site were, for the most part, satisfied with the 

arrangements for breakfast and lunch during the summer when the program was not in session. “I was 

very satisfied. I do not have to work during the summer time so it is not a problem for me,” said one 

respondent. Another said, “He is with my parents and they stuff him. He gets bored over there, but I have 

to work and cannot afford anything else.” 

7.10 What could parents or guardians of children who do not participate in an SFSP do to 

improve their children’s eating arrangements or the kinds of food they eat for 

breakfast and lunch during the summer months? What could parents or guardians of 

children who do participate in an SFSP site do when the program is not in session? 

During the in-person interviews, non-participating respondents were asked what they would 

do to improve the children’s eating arrangements or the kinds of food they eat for breakfast and lunch 

during the summer months. About 35 parents/guardians who participated in the in-person interview said 

that they would give the children more healthy food, food rich in vitamins, including more fruit and 

vegetables, and less fast food and junk food. About a third of the 73 respondents who participated in the 

in-person interviews said that they would not do anything different. Some said that they would give the 

child fewer sweets, and a few said they would provide more protein. In one respondent’s words, “get rid 

of the fatty foods like hamburgers. These kinds of things are not nutritious.” Another said, “Actually, I 
7-15 

would get him to eat more vegetables, like salad and lettuce...maybe spinach. Kids will eat fresh spinach 

in a salad.” “Not eat fast foods, more vegetables and baked foods instead of fried. I want them to have 

leafy vegetables.” “They like frozen foods and that is not always the best for them,” said another. A few 

respondents said that they would look for information on nutrition or that they would send the child to a 

camp or summer program. Other responses given by respondents were: 

 Not giving so many choices to the child, having a regular eating time, making sure the 

menu is right for the child so that she would eat; 

 Try to serve hot meals—“I would try to give hot meals like grits instead of cereal and 

milk every day;” and 

 “I would cook more hot food, they eat a lot of cold breakfasts. I could cook more 

eggs, oatmeal...things like that.” 

During the in-person interview, parents and guardians whose children attended an SFSP site 

were asked what they would do to improve the children’s eating arrangements or the kinds of food they 

ate for breakfast and lunch during the summer months when the child was not in a summer program. The 

responses of this group were similar to those of the respondents whose children did not attend an SFSP 

site in the summer. Some respondents reported that they would not do anything, while others said that 

they would provide meals that are more nutritious, hot food, and less fast food. Some of the responses 

included the following: 

 “He likes a lot of fast food like Burger King and stuff, so I need to probably do less of 

that and just get him to eat right;” 

 “I would like for him to eat at a regular time so he does not snack and throw off the 

other meals. Sometimes he will wake up late, not eat breakfast and eat lunch late;” 

 “I would give more variety. I have very picky eaters and even when they are in the 

program, it is hard. For everything they like in a meal, there were two things that they 

do not like. It can make meal preparation a challenge;” and 

 “I think if I expose them to more variety that might be easier.” 

Overall, most of the ideas given by parents or guardians regarding their children’s eating 

habits when not attending a program at an SFSP site were, in theory, within their control, even if they 

were not able to put them into practice. 
7-16 

7.11 What are the child care arrangements for SFSP-eligible children if or when they are 

not participating in SFSP? 

Across all three respondent groups, mothers most often took care of their children 

themselves when they were not attending an SFSP program. (TP: 67%, TNF 69%, and TNN 59%). Other 

caretakers included day care centers, summer school staff, babysitters, camps, the YMCA, a respondent’s 

boy friend, a neighbor, or another family (Table 7-9). 

About 20 percent of all three samples reported that there were periods of time during the day 

in the summer when there was no one to watch the children. Of those who said they could not find anyone 

to watch their child, 86 percent of TP respondents, 73 percent of TNF respondents, and 71 percent of 

TNN respondents said that this was a problem. 

Table 7-9. Child care arrangements for households of children participating in SFSP during periods 

when SFSP is not in session, and for households with children who did not participate during 

the summer of 2004 

Participant households Non-participant households 

TP TNF TNN 

Childcare arrangement Frequency Percent Frequency Percent Frequency Percent 

Mother watches children 22 67 38 69 66 59 

Father watches children 5 15 5 9 9 8 

Sibling watches children 3 9 4 7 17 15 

Grandparent watches children 6 18 9 16 10 9 

Other relative watches children 2 6 3 5 11 10 

Someone else watches children 6 18 10 18 22 20 

Times when there was no one to 

watch child 7 21 11 20 25 22 

Child care was a problem 6 86 8 73 17 71 

Note: Percentages do not add to 100 because respondents could identify more than one person watching the children. 
8-1 

8. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS 

SFSP-eligible households often face obstacles in their lives. Over 60 percent of parents or 

guardians of SFSP-eligible children who were sampled for this study were divorced, separated, or never 

married. In over 25 percent of these households, no one was employed at the time of the survey. Twentytwo to 29 percent of parents or guardians responding to the survey had not completed high school. 

Less than half of the 200 parents or guardians whose children were eligible to participate in 

the SFSP during the school year knew about an SFSP site. One-fourth of TNN households and 44 percent 

of TNF households, however, sent their child to some other summer program that provided at least one of 

these two meals. Altogether, over 40 percent of households cited attendance at some other program that 

provided meals as the main reason their child did not attend an SFSP site. Other common reasons given 

for nonattendance were that the child was staying somewhere else for the summer, the child was ill, the 

child wanted to stay home, or the parents or guardians wanted him or her at home. 

Households with a child who was SFSP-eligible but whose parent or guardian was unaware 

of an SFSP site were more likely than others to be classified as food insecure over the last 30 days based 

on their answers to a number of questions included in a food security index (52%). Even so, close to 40 

percent of TP and TNF households were also at least somewhat food insecure during the same period. 

Less than 20 percent of parents or guardians thought that their children ate healthier, more 

balanced meals during the summer. The remaining parents or guardians were divided as to whether the 

child ate more healthy and balanced meals during the school year or ate the same year-round. However, 

the answers to other, more specific questions implied that higher proportions of households preferred the 

variety and quality of food available during the summer to the meals served when school was in session. 

This seeming inconsistency could be because of the different phrasing of the questions, rather than to 

actual inconsistencies in response patterns. Respondents were not given the option of saying that the food 

situation was the same at both times of year for the second series of more specific questions. It is most 

likely that substantial proportions of households find no differences between the food they have access to 

in the summer versus the school year. 

Despite relatively high levels of food insecurity among households in the last 30 days, 

however, parents or guardians, when asked more specific questions about eating patterns, gave more 
8-2 

positive responses. All parents or guardians reported that their child ate breakfast in the summer, even 

when the SFSP program was not in session, and even if the child did not attend a summer food program at 

all. More than 90 percent of parents or guardians, regardless of whether their child participated in an 

SFSP site or knew about one, thought that their child had enough to eat at breakfast and lunch in the 

summer, and that their meals were healthy. It is possible that parents or guardians in some of the food 

insecure households provided food to the children, but remained hungry themselves. 

The SFSP is clearly important to the program participants. Seventy-nine percent of TP 

respondents depended on the summer program to provide breakfast for their child and 91 percent relied 

on the program for lunch. Among non-participating parents or guardians, virtually all would have liked 

their children to have access to a summer program that provided breakfast or lunch. While only small 

numbers of parents or guardians admitted to being unable to provide healthy meals to their children over 

the summer, most with a child in attendance at an SFSP program were pleased to participate, and most 

others would like to have such a program available for their children, especially one that is easy to get to 

and provides enriching summer activities. The presentation of more information about the SFSP sites, 

perhaps through the schools, might be a reasonable approach to raising rates of participation. States 

should also be encouraged to solicit the participation of all qualified summer food providers for children 

into the Summer Food Program, as either sponsors or operators of summer sites under a SFSP sponsor. 
Appendix A 

Field Interviewer Training Manual 
A-1 

Felton & Harley Associates, Inc. 

Westat, Inc. 

Field Interviewer Training Manual

ANALYSIS OF THE SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM AND 

FOOD NEEDS OF NONPARTICIPATING CHILDREN

April 2004 
 

Felton & Harley Associates/Westat i 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Chapter Page 

1 Introduction 1-1 

 1.1 Use of this Manual 1-1 

 1.2 Overview and Purpose of the Study 1-1 

 1.3 Survey Administration 1-3 

 1.4 Survey Schedule 1-4 

2 Conducting the Interview 2-1 

 2.1 Overview 2-1 

 2.2 Responsibilities of the Interviewer 2-2 

 2.3 Advance Preparation Letters for the Surveys 2-3 

 2.4 Pretest Highlights 2-3 

 

2.4.1 Telephone Screener and Extended 

Telephone Interviews 2-3 

 2.4.2 In-depth Interview 2-4 

 2.4.3 Administration Procedures and Labeling 2-4 

 Recruitment Grid 2-4 

 Records of Contact Form 2-7 

 Labeling 2-11 

 Transmittal Form 2-13 

 2.5 Sample of Participants 2-15 

 2.6 Contacting the Participants 2-15 

 2.7 Professional Ethics 2-16 

 2.8 Confidentiality 2-17 

 2.9 Survey Standardization 2-17 

 2.10 Interviewer Effects 2-18 

 2.11 Listening Skills 2-19 

 2.12 Body Language/Non-verbal Cues 2-19 

 2.13 Interview Protocols 2-20 

 2.14 Interview Probes 2-21 

 2.15 Importance of Using Neutral Probes 2-22 

 2.16 Handling Objections (Refusal Conversion) 2-23 

 2.17 Answers to Commonly Asked Questions and 

 Objections 2-26 

 2.18 Answering Machine Messages/Voice Mail 2-28 

 2.19 Recording Responses 2-28 
 

Felton & Harley Associates/Westat ii 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) 

Chapter Page 

2 2.20 Ending the Interview 2-29 

 2.21 Editing the Interview 2-29 

 2.22 Data Submission 2-30 

3 Telephone Interview Procedures for the Screener 3-1 

 3.1 Conducting the Telephone Interview 3-1 

 3.2 Screener 3-3 

 

 3.2.1 Screener First Page 3-3 

 3.2.2 Screener Introduction 3-5 

 3.2.3 Screener Questions 3-7 

 3.2.4 Callback Box 3-9 

 3.2.5 Box A 3-11 

 3.2.6 End Box 3-15 

4 Telephone Interview Procedures for the Extended 

 Interviews 4-1 

 4.1 Telephone Non-participant, Not Familiar with 

 SFSP (TNN) 4-3 

 4.2 Telephone Non-participant, Familiar with 

 SFSP (TNF) 4-25 

 4.3 Telephone Participant (TP) 4-49 

5 Interview Procedures for the In-Person Interviews 5-1 

 5.1 In-Person, Non-participant Interview 5-1 

 5.2 In-person, Participant Interview 5-23 

 

6 Appendices App-1 

 A. Key Project Staff and Contact Information App-1 

 B. Definitions of Program Terms for SFSP Program App-2 

 C. Glossary of Acronyms App-3 

 D. FNS Letter to Schools App-6 

 E. Letter from Principal to the Parents App-7 

 F. Parent Letter from the Project Team App-8 

 G. Project Letter to the SFSP Site App-9 
 

Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 1-1 

Chapter 1 - Introduction 

1.1 Use of this Manual 

This manual is designed to provide each interviewer with a detailed guide to his or her 

responsibilities and the procedures necessary for fulfilling them. It covers topics ranging 

from general survey issues and procedures to specific information about administering 

the questionnaires. This manual is also designed to provide the interviewer with a 

framework within which to operate. 

This manual is for your use before, during, and after training. Study it carefully and 

make sure you understand all of the instructions and procedures. Do not hesitate to 

discuss anything that you do not understand with project staff. It is very important that 

you feel comfortable about your work and have confidence in what you are doing. A lack 

of confidence or understanding may be sensed by your respondents and consequentially, 

they may be less likely to provide you with the accurate information that we need for this 

survey. 

1.2 Overview and Purpose of the Study 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) administers 

food programs that provide nutritionally balanced meals and snacks for eligible children 

who are 6 through 18 years of age. The two largest programs, the National School Lunch 

Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP), make meals and snacks available 

to children who attend public and not-for-profit private schools. The NSLP and SBP 

provide lunch and after-school snacks during the regular school year to more than 27 

million students in 100,000 schools nationwide and breakfast to nearly 8 million students 

in 70,000 schools. The NSLP and SBP make available free and reduced-price breakfasts 

and lunches to qualifying children based on family income. Children living in families 

earning at or below 130 percent of poverty, based on family size, qualify for free meals 

and those living in families earning between 130 percent and 185 percent of poverty 

qualify for reduced-price meals. 

The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), which is administered by FNS, was 

designed to meet the summer food needs of eligible children who qualify for free or 

reduced-price breakfasts and lunches during the regular school year. During the summer 

months, federally funded meals are available through the SFSP at state-approved sites. A 

“site” is a physical location that provides SFSP meals and snacks during a regularly 

scheduled time period. Of the 15 million eligible children, only about 1.9 million (14%) 

participated in the SFSP in July 2002. Eligible children are those who qualify for free 

and reduced-price meals under the NSLP and SBP during the regular school year. 

Another 1.4 million of the 15 million eligible students (9%) who attended summer school 

or year-round schools in July 2002 were served free or reduced-price meals through 
 

Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 1-2 

NSLP. The SFSP and NSLP reached approximately 3.3 million children during the 

summer of 2002. 

It may not be reasonable to expect participation rates in SFSP to equal the levels of the 

NSLP and SBP because there are a number of differences that affect participation: 

 The NSLP and SBP are available in schools nationwide, whereas the SFSP is offered 

primarily in areas with high concentrations of low-income children. 

 School is mandatory, while programs associated with SFSP are voluntary. 

 Schools are required to provide transportation for students, while only one-third of 

SFSP sites provide transportation. 

Nonetheless, FNS is committed to ensuring adequate nutrition in the summer for children 

who are eligible for the free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch programs during the 

regular school year. The current research is an extension of past efforts and research 

undertaken by FNS, which was authorized by Congress, to increase participation in 

SFSP. To that end, FNS is very interested in determining why children who are eligible 

for SFSP do not participate in the program. This information is necessary to develop 

strategies for increasing the participation of eligible children in SFSP. FNS is seeking 

answers in the research to such questions as: 

. Are families of qualifying children who do not participate aware of the SFSP? 

. If yes, what are the reasons for nonparticipation? 

In addition to increasing participation, FNS has a strong interest in evaluating how, and to 

what extent, the food needs are being met for children who are eligible for SFSP but who 

do not participate. Questions to be answered in the research include the following: 

. Are qualifying children who do not participate in SFSP food insecure or 

hungry? 

. Is this different from the situation when the regular school year is in session? 

. What do parents or guardians of nonparticipating children do to feed their 

children during the summer, especially at lunch? 

FNS is also seeking information on the following research issues: 

 Are the perceptions and attitudes about the eating patterns of SFSP eligible 

children different for parents or guardians of nonparticipating children 

compared with children participating in SFSP? What are the perceptions and 

attitudes of parents or guardians about the eating patterns of their children, 

both those who participate and those who do not participate in SFSP during 

the summer? 
 

Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 1-3 

 What are the childcare arrangements for SFSP eligible children if or when 

they are not participating in SFSP? 

 What are the feeding arrangements for children who typically participate in 

SFSP, during the summer when SFSP is not available? 

The current research is required to support FNS’ need for information to support planning 

and strategy development to maximize the reach and effectiveness of SFSP in meeting 

the food needs of eligible children. 

1.3 Survey Administration 

Information for the FNS study will be collected through the following research protocol: 

(1) Screener telephone interviews will be conducted with a parent or primary caregiver 

in households which have elementary school age children who participated in the 

2003 – 2004 free or reduced price school breakfast and lunch program. The screener 

interview will classify households according to the participation or nonparticipation 

of children in the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) 

 

(2) Telephone extended interviews will be conducted with parents or primary care 

givers in eligible households where children do not participate in the current SFSP. 

Parents or primary care givers in these non-participating households will be 

categorized as either familiar or not familiar with SFSP programs in their area. For 

comparison purposes, telephone interviews also will be conducted with parents or 

primary care givers in eligible households where children do participate in the current 

SFSP. 

(3) Follow-up interviews will be conducted in-person with a parent or primary care 

giver for a subset of the households who complete the telephone survey. The inperson interviews will include households with eligible children who do not 

participate in SFSP and households with children who do participate. 

The telephone and in-person interviews will be conducted with households located in 

four pre-selected sites in the United States. The screener and data collection instruments 

to be used in these interviews are included in the Appendices. The survey instruments 

focus on awareness of SFSP and non-SFSP summer food programs, participation in the 

programs or reasons for nonparticipation, food security needs of the household, and food 

needs of children during the summer and how they are met. 
 

Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 1-4 

1.4 Survey Schedule 

Data collection for the Project will begin in July 2004 and end in August 2004. You will 

be trained on a screener questionnaire, three extended telephone interview questionnaires, 

and two in-person interview questionnaires for this project. Our goal is to complete 200 

surveys with an 80% response rate. Households will be selected by July 2004. 

The screener questionnaires take approximately 10 minutes to complete; the extended 

telephone interviews require 20 minutes for completion, and the in-person interviews 

require 30 minutes for completion. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-1 

Chapter 2 - Conducting the Interview 

2.1 Overview 

The interviewer is primarily responsible for asking questions and recording data 

accurately. Furthermore, the interviewer must be able to determine if the respondent is 

providing the necessary answers to the questions. This is achieved through active listening 

and a thorough understanding of the intent of the questions. Respondents sometimes 

respond to what they thought the interviewer was about to ask, imagining a question that 

includes a key word that caught their attention. Listening carefully to their answers will 

help detect this type of misunderstanding. Interviewers must remember that the best 

answer is obtained only when the respondent understands the intent of the question and has 

responded appropriately. Finally, the interviewer must keep the respondent on track by 

using neutral probing techniques and giving appropriate feedback.

1. Interviewers are an essential part of survey research. 

Project interviewers are the only link between the persons being surveyed and the 

researchers who are conducting the study. Every interviewer has an integral and pivotal 

role in ensuring high-quality data for the study. Without competent interviewers, 

researchers could not trust the data they compile. 

2. Interviewers obtain and record reliable and accurate information. 

After an interview is completed, the only available record is what the interviewer has 

obtained. Answers not recorded or recorded incorrectly cannot be correctly analyzed. The 

burden of obtaining solid research data lies solely with the interviewers. The importance of 

monitoring interviewer performance and survey administration cannot be overemphasized 

for ensuring quality execution of the questionnaire and data accuracy. 

3. Interviewers strive to successfully interview a wide variety of respondents. 

Interviewing strangers is not an easy task. Some people are willing to give their opinions 

and are flattered to be called, while others will hang up before an interviewer has a chance 

to explain the reason for the call. The best interviewers are those who are not offended by 

the respondent’s refusal to participate in the survey and who enjoy the wide variety of 

respondent personalities. A good interviewer is committed to obtaining the best possible 

results with each and every interview and will repeatedly rise to the challenge of a difficult 

interview. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-2 

4. Interviewers are knowledgeable of data collection techniques. 

Interviewers must have an ability to perform professional work in a versatile and creative 

manner. Interviewers must be able to demonstrate satisfactory skills in converting hesitant 

and uncooperative respondents. Interviewers must be able to weigh facts and respond to 

various scenarios, using past practice and theory where applicable, especially in the 

absence of detailed instructions or in emergency situations. 

5. Interviewers must adhere to project deadlines. 

Interviewers must consistently meet deadlines set for data collection and for submission of 

administrative information. Maintaining the integrity of the project timelines is crucial to 

the overall quality of project management and administration. The interviewer also must 

complete expected quantities of work by planning and organizing their workload 

effectively. 

6. Interviewers are expected to maintain the highest quality of work. 

It is expected that the completed work of interviewers is accurate, with a minimum number 

of data quality errors. Interviewers are expected to have the ability to do the required tasks 

well, with a minimal amount of supervision. 

 

2.2 Responsibilities of the Interviewer 

Interviewers screen households and collect data through interviews with respondents by 

using the questionnaires. The interviewer’s job is to complete interviews honestly and 

accurately according to the instructions received during training. 

The interviewer has the following responsibilities: 

• Understands the nature and content of the questions. 

• Ensures respondents’ confidentiality. 

• Understands how to record responses, code questionnaires, and edit interviews. 

• Ensures that the correct respondents are interviewed. 

• Makes quality a priority in all aspects of interviewing. 

• Records a true picture. 

• Executes the work clearly and accurately. 

• Strives for maximum efficiency without sacrificing quality. 

• Is courteous and friendly. 

• Is prepared to deal with problem situations that may arise during interviews. 

• Is persuasive and minimizes the number of selected households and respondents who 

refuse to participate. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-3 

2.3 Advance Preparation Letters for the Surveys 

Elementary schools in each of the geographic areas will receive an advance letter from 

FNS explaining the study and asking for assistance in identifying eligible children 

(Appendix D). All children included on the lists provided by the school, who participated 

in the free or reduced price breakfast and lunch program, will be given an introductory 

letter from the school principal to take to their parents or guardians at the end of the school 

year. The letter will explain the study, the timetable, and ask for the household’s 

participation (Appendix E). Shortly before contacting the households for the screener 

interview, Felton & Harley will mail a second letter reminding the households of the study 

and the upcoming telephone interview (Appendix F). 

The in-person interviews will be held at a local SFSP site or other designated facility. The 

director of the SFSP sites in each geographic location will be mailed an advance letter 

prior to fielding the study explaining the purpose of the study and asking for assistance in 

conducting the in-person interviews by encouraging participation and providing interview 

space (Appendix G). 

2.4 Pretest Highlights 

The purpose of the pretest was to evaluate the Screener/Extended Interview and the Indepth interview instruments to determine whether: 

• the Screener correctly identified eligible households 

• the questions were clear, understandable, and not overly sensitive 

• the flow of each section was straightforward 

The draft SFSP instruments were tested February 2 through February 12, 2004. The 

Screener/Extended interview instrument was tested by telephone on February 2-3, and the 

In-depth interview instrument was tested both in-person and through telephone modes on 

February 5, 7, and 12. A list of 51 children was obtained from an elementary school in 

Maryland. The list consisted of children who participated in school breakfast and/or 

school lunch at an elementary school. The school breakfast program was a ‘universal’ 

program, open to all children who attend the school regardless of whether they qualify for 

free and reduced-cost meals. 

2.4.1 Telephone Screener and Extended Telephone Interviews 

The telephone Screener and Extended interview instrument consists of four parts: 

1. A Screener (TS) to identify eligible households 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-4 

2. A section for respondents whose children are participants in an SFSP program 

(TP) 

3. A section for respondents whose children are not participants but are familiar 

with SFSP programs (TNF); 

4. A section for respondents who are not participants and are not familiar with 

SFSP programs (TNN). 

A total of six Screener/Extended interviews were conducted with parents of eligible 

children using this instrument: 3TPs, 2 TNFs, and 1 TNN. The time to complete the 

interview ranged from a high of 22 minutes to a low of 14 minutes. The average time to 

complete a TP interview was 17 minutes; TNF 20 minutes; and TNN 15 minutes. 

2.4.2 In-depth Interview 

The In-depth interview was conducted with four respondents – three participants (IP) and 

one non-participant household (IN). The interviews averaged 15 minutes to complete. In 

general, the three in-depth interviews flowed well and the questions were understandable 

to all respondents. 

Because the introduction was too stilted for an in-person interview, each interviewer will 

write his/her own personal introduction from a set of talking points that sounds more like 

an explanation than a script. 

2.4.3 Administrative Procedures and Labeling 

As an interviewer for the Summer Foods Study, you will be contacting many families by 

telephone to complete a screener and for some households conduct an extended telephone 

interview. Before you begin making the calls to households that are part of your 

assignment you will need to do some advance preparation to ensure that you have all of the 

materials needed to conduct the call. In addition to having the case specific materials, you 

should have a supply of each type of interview within reach so that you can move quickly 

on to conducting the extended interview, if needed. Felton and Harley (F&H) will provide 

you with a sufficient supply of each type of data collection instrument to complete your 

assignment. 

The study team has developed several forms designed to help you organize and complete 

work that is part of your assignment. These materials include: 

Recruitment Grids 

Record of Contacts Forms 

Labels 

Transmittal Forms 

Recruitment Grid. We have developed Recruitment Grids as a tool to assist you in 

keeping track of how many types of interviews you have completed. It is very important 

that you keep the grid up-to-date so that you will know at a glance how many households 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-5 

you have recruited. Each time you recruit a household you will record a “1” on the 

Recruitment Grid. The last column on the right of the Recruitment Grid indicates the 

“maximum number of households that you can recruit for each type of interview. The 

Recruitment Grid is an important tool because it will give you a running count of the 

number and categories of households you have recruited. A copy of a blank Recruitment 

Grid is shown as Exhibit 1. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-6 

Exhibit 1 

RECRUITMENT GRID FOR _______________________________________ 

SCREENER 

BOX A LINE 

TYPE Record # Recruited MAXIMUM 

A Non-participant, Not familiar 

B Non-participant, familiar } 40 C Participant, SFSP not public 

school 

D Participant, SFSP in public 

school 

} 10;D<4 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-7 

Record of Contacts Form. To assist you in keeping track of all case-specific contacts that 

you make we have developed a Record of Contacts Form. This form is to be used to record 

the interim status code for each case within your assignment. You will also use this form to 

record any calls to parents or other contacts that you make related to the case. (A copy of 

this form is shown as Exhibit 2. 

You will complete a separate record of calls for each case within your assignment. You 

should write in a status code for each call that you make using the following codes: 

03 Scheduled Appointment 

04 Scheduled Attempt 

07 Number Not Working 

08 Breakoff /Will Return 

09 Breakoff/Refusal 

10 Initial Refusal 

11 Language Problem 

30 Partial Complete 

31 Complete English 

32 Complete Spanish 

33 Unavailable During Study Period 

34 Refusal 

The final response codes listed below can only be assigned by the study’s management 

team. The FINAL CODES are: 

40 Partial Complete 

41 Complete English 

42 Complete Spanish 

43 Complete Other Language 

44 Unavailable During Study Period 

45 Refusal 

The definitions of each of the interim result codes are shown below. Review this list 

carefully, as these are the codes that you will assign and report during your weekly report 

calls with F&H. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-8 

03 Scheduled Appointment Use this code when you have made a definite 

appointment to conduct a screener or an 

interview. Do not use this code for a respondent 

who says “Call next week.” Enter the 

appointment details under Comments. 

04 Scheduled Attempt Use code when you have attempted to reach the 

respondent and there is no answer or line is busy. 

07 Number Not Working (telephone) Use this code when you have attempted to reach 

the respondent by phone and the phone does not 

ring, does not give you a busy signal, or when 

you get a recorded message from the phone 

company or the number has been disconnected. 

08 Breakoff – Will Return Use this code when you get a breakoff, but the 

respondent agrees to complete the interview at a 

later time or date. 

09 Breakoff – Refusal Use this code when you first get a refusal 

breakoff. All initial refusal breakoffs will receive 

refusal conversion attempts. F&H will discuss 

with you whether you should try again and the 

approach you should take.. 

10 Initial Refusal Use this code when you first get a refusal. All 

initial refusals will receive refusal conversion 

attempts. F&H will discuss with you whether 

you should try again and the approach you should 

take, or whether the case should be transferred to 

the other interviewer for that site. 

11 Language Problem Use this code if the respondent does not speak 

English or Spanish. 

30 Partial Complete Use this code for an incomplete interview. 

31 Complete, English An interview completed in English. 

32 Complete, Spanish An interview completed in Spanish. 

34 Unavailable During Study Period Use this code for a respondent who, for reasons 

of illness or absence, is not available to be 

interviewed during the time period in which the 

study is being conducted. 

35 Refusal Use this code for a parent or guardian who, 

despite all attempts at refusal conversion, 

continues to refuse to be interviewed. 

 FINAL RESULT CODES F&H USE ONLY 

40 Partial Complete Use this code for an incomplete interview 

41 Complete, English An interview completed in English. 

42 Complete, Spanish An interview completed in Spanish. 

44 Unavailable During Study Period Use this code for a respondent is not available to 

be interviewed during the time period in which 

the study is being conducted. 

45 Refusal Use this code for a parent or guardian who, 

despite all attempts at refusal conversion, 

continues to refuse to be interviewed. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-9 

The data processing staff will review each complete interview before assigning a final code 

to any of the work that you submit. These response codes are important because they 

ensure that F&H knows the status of each case that has been assigned to you. We will 

assign a final response code to each household that has been screened and is eligible to be 

interviewed as well as to each completed interview. Final response codes for both the 

completed screeners and the completed interviews will be logged into the study’s receipt 

control system 

You will be required to complete a record of contacts for each case in your assignment. 

You will use the completed forms during your weekly report calls with F&H. The form 

includes space for you to write your name, the date of your contact or activity related to a 

specific case, the day, time (am or p.m.) contact with the household, and the interim result 

code for the screener and/or the interview. Under type of interview, you will record the 

status code under one of the following headings: 

• Telephone, Non-participant, Not Familiar (TNN) 

• Telephone, Non-participant, Familiar (TNF) 

• Telephone, Participant (TP).

The first column of the form is where you will affix a Case ID label. Write in the ID 

number when you make your next and any subsequent entries about the case. Without the 

case ID section completed it will be impossible for you to know what case you are 

reporting on. This form also includes a comment section for you to write in any other 

relevant information that you believe is important. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-10 

Exhibit 2 

INTERVIEWER NAME: __________________________________________ 

ANALYSIS OF THE SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM 

RECORD OF CONTACTS 

 RESULT CODE 

Case 

ID DATE DAY TIME Interview Type COMMENTS 

Screener TNN TNF TP 

 am 

pm 

 am 

pm 

 am 

pm 

 am 

pm 

 am 

pm 

 am 

pm 

 am 

pm 

 am 

pm 

 am 

pm 

 am 

pm 

 am 

pm 

INTERIM RESULT CODES 

Scheduled Appointment.........................................................................03 Language Problem ................................................................................11 Scheduled Attempt.................................................................................04 Partial Complete ....................................................................................30 Number Not Working..............................................................................07 Complete English...................................................................................31 Breakoff Will Return ...............................................................................08 Complete Spanish .................................................................................32 Breakoff/Refusal.....................................................................................09 Unavailable During Study Period...........................................................34 Initial Refusal..........................................................................................10 Refusal...................................................................................................35 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-11 

Labeling. You will be responsible for affixing a label to each case for which you have 

made contact. Labeling is critical to the success of the study because it is our only means 

of keeping track of cases. Each interviewer will receive several sheets of unique labels. 

Each row of labels represents a case and should only be used when working that case. (A 

copy of the labels is shown as Exhibit 3) It is important that each case that you work must 

have a label affixed to each instrument, e.g. screener and the interview. The procedure for 

using the labels follows: 

1. Affix the first label of the row to the screener. 

2. Use the second label on the Record of Contacts. 

3. If the household screens into the study, affix the third label to the 

appropriate interview i.e. TNN, TNF, or TP) 

4. The fourth label can be used on the NIRF, if needed. 

In addition to labeling each instrument, you must always use the unique ID number on all 

additional entries on the Record of Contacts and on all transmittal sheets. In these 

instances, you will need to hand-write the number exactly as shown on the label. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-12 

Exhibit 3 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0101-001 -001

01-002

01-003

01-004

01-005

01-006

01-007

01-008

01-009

01-010

01-011

01-012

01-013

0101-014 -014

01-015

01-016
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-13 

Transmittal Form. You will use a transmittal form when sending cases to F&H. (A 

copy of the transmittal form is included as Exhibit 4). The transmittal form includes a 

place to record your name, the city where the interviews are being conducted, the case ID 

number, and the type of data collection instruments being sent. The transmittal form is 

produced on 3-ply paper so that you can send the top two copies (white and yellow) to 

F&H and keep the bottom copy (pink) for your records. 

Each week you will need to send the white and yellow copies of the transmittal form along 

with all completed work (screener and interviews) to F&H. Your timesheet should be 

included with your work via FedEx. Using FedEx enables F&H to track any mail that you 

send should it become lost or delayed. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-14 

Exhibit 4 

ANALYSIS OF THE SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM 

INTERVIEWER TRANSMITTAL FORM 

___________________________ _____________________________ 

Name of Interviewer Date 

Transmittal #________________ City _________________________ 

Screener ID 

Interim 

Code Questionnaire ID 

Interim 

Code 

NIRF? 

(Y/N) 

1. 

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10. 

11. 

12. 

13. 

14. 

15. 

16. 

17. 

18. 

19. 

20. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-15 

2.5 Sample of Participants 

A list of names will be obtained from local school districts in each of the four geographic 

areas of elementary grade children who qualified and participated in the free or reduced 

price breakfast and lunch program through the SBP and NSLP during the 2003-2004 

school year. Assuming that 90% of household can be accessed by phone we will use 

each list to sample proportionately to yield the required number of interviewees after 

allowing for an expected 80% response rate. 

We will recruit 50 households per geographic site (for a total of 200 households) to 

participate in the study as follows: 

• 40 households will consist of SFSP non-participants. 

• 10 households will consist of SFSP participants. 

We will first administer a screener to each of the participating households to identify 

households with children who attended elementary school during the 2003-2004 school 

year. Households that meet the screening criteria will be administered the extended 

telephone interview and asked questions about the one elementary school child who had a 

birthday most recently. The extended telephone interview will be completed immediately 

after the screener with the participating households. In addition, 50 percent of those 

completing the extended interview (25 per geographic site for a total of 100 households) 

will be invited to participate in a brief in-person interview, which will be conducted one 

to two weeks later by a member of the study team. 

2.6 Contacting the Participants 

The participant list in the sample should contain all the information you need to contact 

the household. When you contact the respondent named on the participant list, you 

should introduce yourself and explain the survey to the respondent that you are calling. 

You will say to them: 

Hello, my name is ____________. I’m calling for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. We are 

conducting a study about summer food programs for children. 

[PAUSE AND ACKNOWLEDGE ANY RESPONSE FROM RESPONDENT] 

The Department of Agriculture is asking for your support. Recently your child’s school sent you a 

letter inviting you to be part of this study. You may have also heard about this study through your 

school, church or community leaders. We only need about 20 minutes of your time today to 

collect some information about your household and the kinds of feeding arrangements and child 

care that you made for your children this summer when they were not in school. We may also 

contact you again in a few weeks for an additional in-person interview to follow-up on some of 

the information you provided. Your participation is entirely voluntary. There are no consequences 

if you decide not to participate, in either the whole study or any particular question. Also, all 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-16 

answers are kept confidential, and the results of the study will be reported only as grouped data so 

that your identity is not revealed. 

2.7 Professional Ethics 

Ethics can be broadly defined as a set of moral values or principles of conduct governing 

an individual or a group. It is important to show clients, employees, and the public, a 

prevailing sense of integrity, honesty, and responsibility in all aspects of work. 

All research conducted by the Felton & Harley/Westat team is based on the highest 

ethical standards. Interviewers are expected to maintain the same professional ethics. 

As part of professional ethics, the rights of survey respondents must be protected by all 

members of the Felton & Harley/Westat team. These rights include: 

• The right of informed consent refers to the legal requirement that respondents be 

given complete and accurate information so that they can make an informed 

decision about their participation in the survey. At the beginning of each 

interview, you will review the purpose of the Project, tell them why you are 

asking them to answer questions, and remind them that they are free to withdraw 

their consent and participation at any time. Instruct the respondent that their 

responses will be kept confidential. Some respondents may decline to consent. If 

this should occur, use the responses to refusals. If the respondent refuses to sign 

the consent, do not conduct the interview and record the refusal. 

• The right to refuse refers to an individual's right to decline to participate in the 

study or to refuse to answer individual questions once an interview has begun. 

• The right of privacy is guaranteed by the Federal Privacy Act of 1974. This Act 

prohibits the release of data gathered by or for a Federal agency without the 

written consent of the respondent. Fines and penalties apply to individuals or 

organizations that violate this law. You can explain this to a respondent when 

trying to gain his or her trust. 

• The right to accurate representation requires honesty in dealing with 

respondents and answering their questions about the survey. For example, you 

cannot tell the respondent that an interview will take only 5 minutes if you know 

it will last about 30 minutes. 

All staff involved in the collection, processing, and analysis of the survey data must be 

continually aware of the important responsibility to safeguard the rights of the survey 

participants. Since interviewers are in direct contact with these respondents, you must 

demonstrate high ethical standards in all project contacts. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-17 

2.8 Confidentiality 

A significant amount of the data collected during the interview is sensitive. You must ask 

all questions and record all responses in a completely objective and nonjudgmental 

manner. Be aware of the sensitivity issue and of the need to treat as confidential any and 

all information you learn about respondents, whether directly from a response you 

receive or simply through casual observations before, during, or after the interview. 

Because of the sensitive nature of the subject matter, the project staff have taken special 

precautions to protect the confidentiality of the respondents. The confidentiality of all 

responses to the questions is protected under federal law (Section 501 of the Public 

Health Service Act). All answers are only used for research and analysis and cannot be 

used for any other purpose. 

• Respondents should be reassured that any potentially identifying data, such as 

their address, are never made available to anyone outside the project staff. 

• Individual responses are only analyzed in combination with other responses 

collected nationwide. 

All project staff must share the commitment to protect the confidentiality of the 

respondents. 

2.9 Survey Standardization 

To ensure that the data are reliable, it is essential that all respondents hear the same 

questions. This means that all interviewers must ask the questions exactly as written, 

in the same order, and in the same way. The tone of the interview should be 

conversational, but without introducing information that may change the meaning of a 

question or bias a response. 

You will notice in the questionnaires that many of the answer categories for each section 

are repeated. The general rule for this project is that for each section all answer categories 

must be read to the respondent at least once. Once the respondent “catches on” and 

understands the available answer options, then the interviewer does not need to repeat all 

the answer categories except as a prompt where the respondent seems to be hesitating 

over a response or is repeatedly selecting the same category. 

 Guidelines for Recording Answers for Different Types of Questions 

• Open-ended, factual questions – Write down all information relevant to the 

question’s objectives. 

• Open-ended, opinion questions – Write down the answer verbatim; use no 

paraphrasing or summaries. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-18 

• Close-ended, factual questions – Check off the answer chosen by the respondent. 

If the respondent is not certain which category fits, treat the question as an open 

question and record all the relevant information. The final decision about how to 

treat the answer should be made during the coding operation. 

• Close-ended, opinion questions – Check off the answer chosen by the respondent. 

Probe until the respondent chooses an answer. Do not check off an answer 

category unless the respondent chooses it. 

2.10 Interviewer Effects 

The interviewer can influence the respondent’s answers consciously or unconsciously 

through the use of verbal and non-verbal cues. You must avoid interjecting your own 

expectations and values that could lead the respondent to provide biased answers. 

Respect the respondent’s personality, customs, and cultural background and do not 

impose your own beliefs, values, and interpretations on the respondent. Always maintain 

a neutral approach and do not distort the wording of questions or instruction guidelines. If 

a respondent tells you about a painful experience to which you relate, do not share your 

own experience with them. Instead, you may say, “I am sorry that happened to you,” or 

“That must have been a difficult time for you”. 

To avoid creating interviewer effects, do not:

• Offer your own opinion during the interview 

• Show approval/disapproval through your tone of voice, expressions, or comments 

• Discuss your own experiences with the respondent 

• Read the questions using your own words instead of those written on the 

questionnaire 

** The following examples show situations in which you could influence the respondent: 

1. A question reads, “What is your profession?” 

The Interviewer asks, “What is your current job?” A teacher by profession might be 

currently working in a grocery store because of a teacher’s strike and would answer the 

first question “teacher” and the second “grocery store clerk.” The correct response is lost, 

and those who interpret the data will never know it unless the interview was observed. 

2. A question reads “How did you find out about the program?” with Interviewer 

instructions, “Do not read response options.” 

The Interviewer does not read the whole list of options out loud but begins offering some 

of them when the respondent hesitates. The respondent was about to say she was told 

about the program by a friend, but when the Interviewer suggests a TV commercial, she 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-19 

says, “Oh, maybe I did see one.” She does not go on to say that her friend’s 

recommendation is what most motivated her to look into the program. The correct 

response has again been lost. 

3. A question reads, “What is your opinion of how well the CEO is doing his job?” 

Although the Interviewer’s probing instructions are to remain neutral, to say “un-huh” 

and “please continue” to get a complete response, when the respondent says he is happy 

with the CEO’s performance, the Interviewer chuckles and asks, “Well, what about that 

missing funds incident?” The chuckle tells the respondent that the Interviewer disagrees 

with him or her, and the question about the missing funds takes the respondent in a 

direction he would not have chosen if left to respond on his/her own. 

** (From Frey and Oishi, How to Conduct Interviews by Telephone and In Person, Sage, 1995, p.34)

2.11 Listening Skills 

In this context, listening involves two important aspects. First, by listening attentively to 

the respondent you will be able to probe for more information when necessary and be 

sensitive to the respondent’s level of comfort or discomfort with the question. Second, 

you must be able to hear and understand the respondent’s answer to record it correctly on 

the questionnaire. The best conditions for active listening include a state of “relaxed 

concentration” during which the interviewer is listening to the respondent, watching the 

respondent’s face and body language, and trying to understand the respondent’s ideas. 

2.12 Body Language/Non-verbal Cues 

As an interviewer, you must be aware of your own and the respondent’s physical 

expressions. Non-verbal cues can be conveyed through facial expressions, posture, and 

hand and foot movements. Slouching in the chair, resting your head on a hand, tapping 

your fingers, shaking your foot, playing with a pencil, or other object, yawning, fidgeting, 

or staring may all signal lack of interest in, anxiety about, or frustration with the 

interview process. Other body signals may indicate different emotional reactions, 

including sadness, anger, or confusion. Observe the respondent’s body language when he 

or she first enters the room and during the course of the interview. If the body language 

changes and there are obvious prolonged signs of distress during the interview, you may 

need to offer the respondent a short break to get a drink, go to the restroom, or walk 

about. Also be tuned-in to your own body language. You may be unintentionally telling 

the respondent you are bored, uninterested, or impatient, and this could affect his or her 

attitude and answers.
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-20 

2.13 Interview Protocols 

When beginning an interview, you should reassure the respondent that there are no wrong 

or right answers. As an interviewer you must: 

• Read questions exactly as they are worded in the questionnaire. 

• Read questions in the order in which they are presented on the questionnaire. 

• Ask every question on the questionnaire (unless there are skipped instructions). 

• After reading the question, listen quietly and patiently for the response. 

• Do not interrupt or make a comment before the respondent has completed an answer. 

• Read questions with no additions, deletions, or substitutions. 

• Read each question slowly at about two words per second. 

• Use a tone of voice that conveys assurance, interest, and a professional manner that is 

neutral and non-judgmental. 

• Emphasize underlined words to enhance meaning. 

Do not attempt to re-word or explain a question. If the respondent does not understand, 

repeat the question slowly. You can also use the standardized definitions presented with 

the questionnaire. If they continue to ask what it means, reply, “Whatever it means to 

you.” 

Sometimes a respondent will want to answer a question before you have finished reading 

it. It is crucial that the respondent hear the entire question before answering. If the 

respondent interrupts, you must continue reading the question. This allows the respondent 

to hear the entire question and it also discourages future interruptions. 

Don’t skip a question because the answer was given earlier or because you “know” the 

answer. In those situations in which the respondent has already provided information that 

probably answers the next question, you may preface the question with some 

combination of the following phrases: 

• “I know we’ve talked about this,”--or—“ I know you just mentioned this, but I need 

to ask each question as it appears in the questionnaire.” 

• You have already touched on this, but let me ask you...” 

• You’ve told me something about this, and this next question asks...” 

Do not direct the respondent toward an answer or assume that an “answer” you got in 

passing is the correct answer to a specific question at a particular point in the interview. 

Do not direct the respondent by mentioning an earlier answer. If an answer is different 

from the one you expect, do not remind the respondent of an earlier remark or try to force 

consistency. Finally, remember that although you may have read these questions many 

times, the respondent is hearing them for the first time and needs time to understand the 

questions in order to decide on the answers. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-21 

2.14 Interview Probes 

When the respondent's answer does not meet the question's objective, probe to clarify or 

expand his/her answer. 

The probing procedures listed below are useful in stimulating discussion. Introduce these 

devices casually as a natural expression of interest. 

• Brief affirming comments, such as - "Yes, I see," show the respondent that you are 

giving your attention to the answer. They often stimulate the respondent to talk 

further. 

• An expectant pause accompanied by an inquiring look after the respondent has given 

only an incomplete reply often conveys to the respondent that (s)he has merely begun 

answering the question. It will often bring forth further response. 

• Repeating the question or listing the response categories (when applicable) is useful 

when the respondent does not understand the question, misinterprets it, seems unable 

to make up his/her mind, or strays from the subject. 

• Repeating the respondent's reply is useful in helping to clarify the response and 

prompting the respondent to enlarge upon his/her statement. Be sure you adhere 

strictly to the respondent's answer and do not interject your own ideas. 

• Neutral questions (probes) in a neutral tone of voice will bring fuller, clearer 

responses. For example: 

"I don't quite understand what you mean."

or 

"Which figure would you say comes closest?" 

(Probe to clarify hours worked last week, weeks looking for work, or income.) 

Such questions show your interest and are successful when used correctly. You must 

recognize immediately how the respondent's answer fails to meet the question objective 

and use a neutral probe to get the correct information. Your manner of asking neutral 

questions is important; a sharp demanding tone can damage rapport. It is sometimes good 

for you to appear slightly bewildered by the respondent's answer. Indicate in your probe 

that it might be you who did not understand. (For example "I'm not sure what you mean 

by that, could you tell me a little more?") This can arouse the respondent's desire to help 

someone who is trying to do a good job. However, do not overplay this technique. The 

respondent should not get the feeling that you do not know when a question is properly 

answered. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-22 

 2.15 Importance of Using Neutral Probes 

We have stressed that you need to stimulate discussion. This does not mean that you 

should influence the respondent's answer or unnecessarily prolong the interview. 

Probing should be as neutral as possible so you do not distort the respondent's answers. 

When you ask neutral questions of all respondents, we have comparability between all 

the interviewers in the survey. If each interviewer asks a leading probe, we would not be 

comparing responses to the same questions. This would defeat the goal of having a 

standardized survey. 

Respondent Replies "I Don't Know" 

Respondents do not always mean what they first say. The "I don't know" answer might 

mean: 

• The respondent does not understand the question and answers "I don't know" to 

avoid saying that (s)he did not understand. 

• The respondent is thinking and says, "I don't know" to give him/her time to think. 

• The respondent may be trying to evade the issue, so (s)he begs off with the "I 

don't know" response. 

• The respondent may actually not know. 

Discussion often presents a truer picture of the respondent's thoughts and may help you 

determine if you should probe further. Here are some examples of acceptable neutral 

probes: 

Repeating All or Part of the Question

• "Let me read the question again." Repeat the full question with emphasis. 

• "Let me read the question again just to be sure we are focusing on the same 

time period." Repeat the full question with emphasis. 

• Repeat the answer choices with emphasis. 

• Wait 10–15 seconds. If no answer is given, repeat the full question. 

Requesting a Clarification

• "For this question, I need an answer of either 'yes' or 'no'." 

• "Is that a 'yes' or a 'no'?" 

• "Can you give me a specific number of (hours/days/weeks/etc.)?" 

• "Would you say more or less?" 

Reassurances

• "To the best of your knowledge . . . " 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-23 

• "Remember that we will not tell anyone what you say." 

• "Remember, there are no right or wrong answers." 

• "Take your time." 

• "I have to ask all of the questions in order." 

• "We're interested in your own interpretation of the question." 

• "We just want to know what you think." 

• "Whatever [WORD] means to you." 

Repeating an Earlier Question

• "Let me read you an earlier question." 

2.16 Handling Objections (Refusal Conversion) 

Most individuals are friendly and willing to cooperate but a few individuals will have 

concerns, objections, suspicions, or fears. What may appear to be a refusal to cooperate 

may be just an expression of concern or a need for more information about the study, the 

procedures, or the background of the research. 

Since you are the first point of contact for this study, you need to be prepared to 

overcome initial objections. Often you will need to answer the respondents’ questions 

before you can administer the interview. Five common reasons for not wanting to 

cooperate are: 

• The respondent questions the purpose of the study 

• The respondent questions the legitimacy of the study 

• The respondent questions the selection process (“Why me?”) 

• The respondent is concerned about the time required 

• The respondent has fears about being interviewed

When a respondent avoids the interview you might wonder why we don’t just forget 

about him or her and go on to the next case. For the data to be valid, we must try to 

convince each respondent who is selected for the study to cooperate. Each respondent 

selected for the study represents many others of similar age and background. He or she 

can’t be replaced. Therefore, we want to encourage each respondent to participate. 

The following points should help you to reduce or eliminate "refusals" when making 

contacts: 

• Do not invite refusals. An air of apology or defeat can sometimes trigger a refusal. 

Assume that the respondent will want to participate. 

• A friendly, confident and positive manner—assertive but not aggressive—will 

usually have positive effects. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-24 

• Listen carefully to the respondent's comments and try to determine the basis for 

objections. Then target your responses to those objections or concerns. 

• A little more detail about the study, the procedures, confidentiality, or the time 

involved may answer the "unasked" question. Sometimes the best technique is to 

simply ask, "Is there something more I can explain to you about your participation 

in this study?" 

If you are unable to overcome a respondent's objections and the person simply will not 

consent to the screening, then accept the refusal as courteously and graciously as possible 

and thank the person for his/her time. Do not pressure, argue, or otherwise alienate the 

person. Whatever the circumstance of the refusal, always remember to be 

professional, courteous, and friendly. Your goal is to leave the door open for another 

contact by you or by someone else to secure a promise of cooperation. Table 2A 

contains common reasons given by respondents for refusing a screening or an interview. 

Different reasons need to be countered with a different emphasis in response. It is 

important to listen to the respondent's comments and tailor your response to the 

respondent's concerns or need for information. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-25 

Exhibit Chapter 2. Countering Refusals 

Reason for Refusal Response

"Too busy" / "No time" Explain that the screening takes only a few minutes. If a 

respondent is selected for an interview, stress that you will work 

around their schedule. Make an appointment to conduct the 

interview or arrange for a convenient callback time. 

"Don't want to give the 

government personal 

information" / "Don't 

like surveys" 

The objective is to assure respondents the survey is not invasive 

and their privacy will be maintained—by explaining the survey's 

design and the manner of administration. Stress that our interest is 

only in the total of all responses nationwide, not in individual 

answers. No individual respondent will be connected to any of the 

responses in any way. 

"Can't be sure it's 

confidential" / "Need to 

verify this is a legitimate 

study"

Be sure to listen carefully to what respondents are telling you. 

Rather than automatically assuming their questions about 

confidentiality are an expression of distrust, inquire enough to see 

if what they really need is more information. 

"Nothing in it for me" 

Uncooperative

Stress the importance of survey research in public policy—

policies the respondent helps pay for with taxes—and that this is 

their opportunity to contribute to the formation of public policy. 

It is also their chance to help improve the SFSP for children in 

their community. We also offer a $20 stipend to individuals 

selected to participate in an in-person interview. 

"I have to talk to my 

husband/wife first" 

"I think my (social) 

worker sent you"

Consider that these people are responding to what another person 

or force might think about their participation. Assure them you are 

a legitimate field interviewer and that their responses are totally 

confidential—the INS or the welfare workers or the Court system 

will never know of their participation in the survey. 

"I'm not feeling very 

well" 

“Can I put the children 

to bed” 

“This is not a good time”

In these cases, you have caught the person at a bad time but the 

situation is temporary, and at another time the respondent will 

likely agree to be screened or interviewed. Ask when would be a 

better time to come back and set an appointment if you can. 

Though refusals may be discouraging, handling them professionally—and not 

personally—will be the most successful approach in the long run. Do not allow refusals 

to change your attitude and approach when interviewing. Even the best interviewers 

experience occasional refusals; it is not necessarily a reflection of your ability as an 

interviewer. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-26 

2.17 Answers to Commonly Asked Questions and Objections 

Your screening introduction gives potential respondents a general idea of what to expect 

from the study. Many people are satisfied with this explanation. Others will have 

questions or concerns. Use your knowledge of the Project as well as your knowledge of 

survey research in general, to answer the respondent's questions and address any specific 

concerns. 

If you do not know the answer to a question, offer to find out the answer either right 

away or later, depending on how important it is to the participation of the potential 

respondent. If the respondent's participation rests on getting an answer immediately, offer 

to call Stephen Broyles first and, if necessary, Sheila Harley to resolve the problem. 

Some of the most common questions asked by respondents and the appropriate responses 

are shown below. Study these carefully so that you become very skilled in using this 

information. It is crucial that you be completely comfortable explaining the survey to 

potential respondents. 

1. Why is the USDA conducting this survey? 

The USDA is conducting the survey to determine how, and the extent to which, the food 

needs are being met for children who are eligible for SFSP but who do not participate.

2. Who do you work for? 

I work for Felton & Harley Associates who were hired by the USDA to conduct the 

surveys. 

3. May I speak to someone else about the study? 

You can speak to the Project Director, Sheila Harley. Her number is 202-530-7734. 

 

If they want to speak to someone at the USDA, please refer them to Fred Lesnett at 703-

605-0811. 

4. How did you get my phone number? 

Your number was selected from sample of households with elementary age children who 

attended schools in your local school district. This means it was “by chance” that your 

phone number was selected. We will also be collecting data from other households in 

your local school district. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-27 

5. Why do you need to talk to me (or this household)? 

Your opinions are very important. You can help us determine how the food needs of 

children who participate in free or reduced price lunch programs during the regular 

school year are met in the summer time when school is not in session. The information 

obtained from this survey will be used in planning improvements for the SFSP. 

6. I don’t have time to participate in a survey. 

I can schedule the interview at any time that is convenient for you. Also, if you prefer, we 

can start the interview now and finish it later. OR: Maybe I’ve caught you at a bad time. 

Would tomorrow or later today be a better time to call back? Would the weekend be 

better? When would be a good time to call back? 

7. How long is the survey going to take? 

This is a very brief survey that will only take a few minutes. Lets get started now. 

8. What happens to the information I give you? Where does it go? Who handles it? 

The only people who will have access to the information you give us are our own staff 

who have taken an oath of confidentiality. Even they will never see or hear your name or 

the names of anyone in your family. As added protection, I am required by law not to 

reveal any information other than to persons directly involved with the study. Each 

person associated with the study is required to sign a promise that they will keep 

confidential all information provided by respondents. Survey results will be published 

only as statistical totals, and your name will not be associated with any of the data. 

9. I don’t want to buy anything. Are you a member of a religious organization? 

I am not selling anything/soliciting money/ asking you to join any religion or faith. This 

is an important study sponsored by the USDA. We are trying to determine how the food 

needs of children who participate in free or reduced price lunch programs during the 

regular school year are met in the summer time when school is not in session. Let’s start 

now. 

10. I don’t do surveys. 

I’m sorry you may have had unpleasant experiences with other surveys. Your answers are 

extremely important and your participation is needed to make this survey a success. I 

think you’ll find the questions in this survey interesting. Let’s start and you can see. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-28 

11. Can I refuse items in the survey? 

Providing information on this survey is voluntary, and there is no penalty if you choose 

not to respond. However, you are encouraged to participate to insure that the data 

collected are complete and accurate. Your survey will be treated as confidential. 

12. Will you send me the study results? 

There is no plan to release the results to the individuals participating in the survey. The 

data will be analyzed and reports will be issued by the USDA. We can make a copy of 

the final report or an executive summary of the final report available to you at the end of 

the study. 

2.18 Answering Machine Messages/Voice Mail 

Please remember that your voice is the first contact that the household has to the study. 

Thus, your voice should be friendly and clear. You want to make a good first impression 

with the respondent in hopes that he or she will call us back on the toll free number. 

When you hear the answering machine, you should follow this script: 

Hello, I’m [INSERT INTERVIEWER NAME] calling on behalf of the USDA. We are 

calling to invite you to participate in a brief survey to determine how and to what extent 

to which, the food needs are being met for children who are eligible for SFSP but who do 

not participate. Could you please call our toll free number 1-877-303-2292 and ask to 

speak with Stephen Broyles about the Summer Food Service Program Study. We look 

forward to speaking with you. Again, that toll free number is 1-877-303-2292. 

Thank you, good-bye. 

 2.19 Recording Responses 

Most of the questions in the survey questionnaire have pre-coded responses, however a 

few questions are open–ended and you must write in a response to the question. Some 

questions have pre-coded responses including an "Other (SPECIFY)" category. If the 

respondent's answer does not fit into a pre-coded answer, then choose "Other" and 

specify the response. 

When recording open–ended or “Other (SPECIFY)” responses, follow the recording 

practices below to ensure the recorded responses accurately reflect the respondent's 

answers. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-29 

• Record the response verbatim. Record answers in English, even if the interview is 

being conducted in Spanish. Only record a Spanish word if there is no comparable 

English word to translate the answer. 

• If you run out of room in the "other specify" box, make a note for the question, 

continuing the answer on the reverse side of the page. 

• Record your notes for any responses that "don't quite fit" in one of the response 

categories for that question. Remember to record any general remarks about the 

interview or interview setting of the questionnaire. Your notes will help the 

analysts to understand any points of confusion, difficulty, etc. 

• If you mistakenly enter the wrong answer or if the respondent changes his/her 

mind, go back to the question to enter the correct response and initial any 

changes. 

2.20 Ending the Interview 

Be sure to sincerely thank the respondent for spending time with you and for contributing 

to the success of this important national study. Do your best to leave the respondent 

feeling very positive about the interview. Stipends will be paid to the respondents in 30 

days. 

2.21 Editing the Interview 

You are expected to conduct two edits after each round of interviewing for each 

questionnaire you complete. One, which is called a "scan edit", will be conducted at the 

interview site in the presence of the respondent. The other, a more complete edit, will be 

done after you leave the interview site. 

During your scan edit at the SFSP site, you should go back over the questionnaire just as 

soon as you finish the interview. During this edit, you will check to see that you have 

asked all of the applicable questions and that your recorded responses are legible. You 

should also make sure that the information on the cover of the questionnaire is accurate 

and complete. This scan edit is completed in the presence of your respondent so that if 

you find that you have not asked some questions that you should have asked, you can go 

ahead and ask them. Further, you might find that some of your recorded responses are not 

clearly legible. For example, you might have accidentally circled two numbers instead of 

one. In such instances, you will be able to make sure you have the proper answer marked 

by confirming the response 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-30 

The more complete and extensive edit will be done prior to your data submission. At this 

point you should go back over each questionnaire you have completed during the day (or 

evening) and check for the following: 

• Make certain that the ID numbers of the questionnaires you have completed are 

correct. 

• Check all the other information on the cover of each questionnaire to be sure that all 

of the required information has been completed. 

• Review each questionnaire for completeness and accuracy; that is, check again to be 

sure that you have not skipped any questions which should have been asked. 

• Make sure that all of your recorded responses are legible. 

 

• Make sure that any marginal notations are legible, as are all responses to open-ended 

questions. 

Our goal is to end up with error-free questionnaires as a result of the editing completed in 

the field. 

2.22 Data Submission 

Each data collection instrument will include a unique 5 digit ID number. Each survey 

instrument will consist of a two-digit project ID designated for each site, followed by 3 

digits beginning with 001 in each site. An example of the ID structure is 01-001 where 

01 designates the site and 001 is the sequential number of the survey. Labels will be 

generated for the screener and extended telephone interview. The labels will be affixed, 

in order, to the surveys. 

The labels are important because they will be used to receipt the completed instruments 

into the receipt system designed for the study. The survey instruments will be formatted 

so that they are easy to read. The instrument will also be pre-coded, so that the 

interviewer will need only to circle or check-off items. 

Westat has developed an in-house receipt system to track survey questionnaires through 

internal data processing activities. The system will be used to record receipt of 

questionnaires by Westat data preparation staff. Westat analysis staff will be responsible 

for the review of key data items and determination of appropriate questionnaire status. At 

the end of data collection, the receipt system database will be compared with the final 

keyed questionnaire data to ensure that all hard-copy questionnaires have been 

successfully entered into the survey database. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 2-31 

When a questionnaire arrives, it will be logged into the system and reviewed. All 

questionnaires will be reviewed for completeness. Although the survey administrator 

will be responsible for assigning an interim status code for each case in their assignment, 

questionnaires will be assigned a final status code based on the reviewer’s evaluation. 

The interim status codes that you will use are: 

03 Scheduled Appointment 

04 Scheduled Attempt 

07 Number Not Working 

08 Break-off/Will Return 

09 Break-off/Refusal 

10 Initial Refusal 

11 Language Problem 

30 Partial Complete 

31 Complete English 

32 Complete Spanish 

33 Complete Other 

34 Unavailable During Study Period 

35 Refusal 

The final response codes listed below can only be assigned by project staff. The final 

codes are: 

40 Partial Complete 

41 Complete English 

42 Complete Spanish 

43 Complete Other Language 

44 Unavailable During Study Period 

45 Refusal 

The response code and date will be logged into the receipt control system. Receipt 

control will serve as a critical checkpoint to ensure that each questionnaire has been 

correctly completed. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-1 

Chapter 3 - Telephone Interview Procedures for the Screener 

3.1 Conducting the Telephone Interview 

The telephone interview will include a Screener to identify and recruit eligible respondents, as 

well as an Extended Interview for those respondents who are eligible to participate. 

You will administer the Screener to parents and guardians of children who are eligible to 

participate in the Summer Food Service Program. You will be provided a list of eligible children 

that participated in the free or reduced price breakfast and lunch program at a school in your 

assigned local school district. The Screener will classify these households as either ‘Participants’ 

or ‘Non-participants’ in the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). In addition, it will identify 

‘Non-participant’ households as either familiar or not familiar with the SFSP programs. 

Using the Screener, your goal is to recruit 50 households to complete the Extended interview. Of 

those, 40 will be non-participants (either familiar or not familiar with the SFSP programs) and 10 

will be participants. Of the 10 participants, you may recruit up to four households whose 

children attend an SFSP program in a public school. Once a household is determined to be 

eligible to participate and is categorized as a ‘Non-participant’ or ‘Participant’, you will recruit 

the household if you have not filled your quota for that particular category. 

The respondent representing the recruited household will then be administered one of three 

different Extended Interviews, depending on how the household is categorized. The Extended 

Interviews include: (1) Non-participant, Not familiar with SFSP; (2) Non-participant, Familiar 

with SFSP; and (3) Participant in SFSP. 

The following pages contain question-by-question (QxQ) specifications for each question and 

box on the Screener and Extended Interview. This chapter is set up so that you can refer to the 

questionnaire as you are reading the description of each question. When you turn this page you 

will find an illustration of the first page of the Screener questionnaire on the left side and the 

description of that page on the right side. The part of the questionnaire being described is 

highlighted in gray to draw you to that particular section. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-2 

OMB #: EXPIRATION DATE: 

SCREENER 

AND 

EXTENDED TELEPHONE INTERVIEW FOR ELIGIBLE PARTICIPANTS 

INTERVIEWER NAME:___________________________________ 

INTERVIEWER ID:______________________________________ 

DATE OF INTERVIEW: |___|___| |___|___| |___|___||___|___| 

SITE NAME/ADDRESS:___________________________________ 

 ___________________________________ 

 ___________________________________ 

START TIME: |___|___| |___|___|AM PM 

STOP TIME: |___|___| |___|___|AM PM 

PUT LABEL ID HERE 

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY 

DATE RECEIVED:__________ 

BATCH #:_________________ 

ID VERIFIED:______________ 

NOTIFICATION TO RESPONDENT OF ESTIMATED BURDEN OMB #XXXX EXP. DATE: XX/XX/XXXX 

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 20 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, 

searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. An agency may not 

conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. Send 

comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to: NIH, 

Project Clearance Office, 6705 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7974, Bethesda, MD 20892-7479, ATTN: PRA (0925-0465). Do not return the completed form to 

this address. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-3 

3.2 Screener 

3.2.1. Screener First Page 

The first page of the Screener includes a box for the label ID and other information that you will 

need to fill in before or at the beginning of the interview. 

Before you dial the household telephone number, fill in the following information: 

Label box. Remove one of the labels from your package of labels and affix it over the box. 

Interviewer name. Record your name on the line, last name first, and first initial. For example, 

Curtin, S. 

Interviewer ID. Record the interviewer ID that you were assigned in training. 

Once you get a respondent on the phone, fill in the following information: 

Date of interview. Record the day, month, and year. Back fill the day and month with leading 

zeros if needed. Record the year as four digits. For example, |0|3| |0|9| |2|0|0|4|.

Site name/Address. Record the local site name(s) and address(es) provided you by F&H. You 

will need these names as you administer the Screener questionnaire. 

Start Time. Record the time you start the interview in hours and minutes. Back fill with 

leading zeros if needed. For example, |0|4| |0|5| AM PM 

Stop Time. Record the time you complete the interview in hours and minutes, following the 

same procedures as for the Start Time. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-4 

SCREENER 

Hello, my name is ____________. I’m calling for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. We are conducting 

a study about summer programs for children and what role these programs play in feeding your children 

during the summer months. 

[PAUSE AND ACKNOWLEDGE ANY RESPONSE FROM RESPONDENT] 

The Department of Agriculture is asking for your support. Recently your child’s school sent you a letter 

inviting you to be part of this study. You may have also heard about this study through your school, 

church or community leaders. We only need about 20 minutes of your time today to collect some 

information about your household and the kinds of feeding arrangements and child care that you made for 

your children this summer when they were not in school. We may also contact you again in a few weeks 

for an additional in-person interview to follow-up on some of the information you provided. 

Your participation is entirely voluntary. There are no consequences if you decide not to participate, in 

either the whole study or any particular question. Also, all answers are kept confidential, and the results of 

the study will be reported only as grouped data so that your identity is not revealed. 

S1. How many children currently live in this household who are 6 through 18 years old? Please 

include children who are 6 years old and 18 years old. 

|___|___| # Children 

[0=INELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLD, END] 

S2. (Did this child/Did any of these children) attend elementary school during the past school year? 

NO.......................................................... 01 (END) 

YES ........................................................ 02 (CONTINUE) 

S3. How many children attended elementary school during the past year? [CONFIRM IF S1=1] 

|___|___| # Children 

S4. Are you the parent or guardian of (this child/these children)? 

NO.......................................................... 01 

(ASK TO SPEAK TO PARENT/GUARDIAN; 

IF NOT AVAILABLE, GO TO 

CALLBACK BOX) 

YES ........................................................ 02 (CONTINUE) 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-5 

3.2.2. Screener Introduction 

You will read the first paragraph of the introduction to the respondent verbatim. The 

introduction is designed to identify you, name the U.S.D.A. as the study sponsor, and introduce 

the respondent to the study. If the person who answers the phone is not an appropriate 

respondent (e.g., friend, neighbor, or child) you will ask to speak to an adult in the household and 

repeat the first paragraph to that person. If there is no adult in the household you will ask for a 

good time to call back and terminate the call. Record the call back information on the call 

record. 

Continue with the second paragraph of the introduction, reading verbatim. In this paragraph you 

will orient the respondent to the study by reminding him or her of the advance letter from the 

school principal that was sent home with his or her child at the end of the school year (Appendix 

E) and the F&H letter that was sent to the household in early July, reminding them of the 

upcoming telephone call (Appendix F). In addition, you will suggest that they may have heard 

about the study through local churches, community leaders, or schools. You will also explain 

the purpose of the telephone call and the average amount of time it will take to complete the 

interview (20 minutes). Finally, you will introduce the possibility of contacting them a second 

time in a few weeks for an in-person interview. 

The last paragraph summarizes the Privacy Act under which this study is being conduct. They 

have a right to know that their participation is entirely voluntary and there are no consequences if 

they decide not to participate. All their answers will be kept confidential and there will be no 

way to identify them through the answers they provide. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-6 

SCREENER 

Hello, my name is ____________. I’m calling for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. We are conducting 

a study about summer programs for children and what role these programs play in feeding your children 

during the summer months. 

[PAUSE AND ACKNOWLEDGE ANY RESPONSE FROM RESPONDENT] 

The Department of Agriculture is asking for your support. Recently your child’s school sent you a letter 

inviting you to be part of this study. You may have also heard about this study through your school, 

church or community leaders. We only need about 20 minutes of your time today to collect some 

information about your household and the kinds of feeding arrangements and child care that you made for 

your children this summer when they were not in school. We may also contact you again in a few weeks 

for an additional in-person interview to follow-up on some of the information you provided. 

Your participation is entirely voluntary. There are no consequences if you decide not to participate, in 

either the whole study or any particular question. Also, all answers are kept confidential, and the results of 

the study will be reported only as grouped data so that your identity is not revealed. 

S1. How many children currently live in this household who are 6 through 18 years old? Please 

include children who are 6 years old and 18 years old. 

|___|___| # Children 

[0=INELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLD, END] 

S2. (Did this child/Did any of these children) attend elementary school during the past school year? 

NO.......................................................... 01 (END) 

YES ........................................................ 02 (CONTINUE) 

S3. How many children attended elementary school during the past year? [CONFIRM IF S1=1] 

|___|___| # Children 

S4. Are you the parent or guardian of (this child/these children)? 

NO.......................................................... 01 

(ASK TO SPEAK TO PARENT/GUARDIAN; 

IF NOT AVAILABLE, GO TO 

CALLBACK BOX) 

YES ........................................................ 02 (CONTINUE) 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-7 

3.2.3. Screener Questions 

Following are the question-by-question specifications for the Screener questions. 

S1. This question asks the number of children living in the household who are 6 years old or 

older, up through 18 years old. Enter the number of children in the boxes. Back fill the zero if 

needed. 

For example, |0|3| # Children 

If there are no children in the household go to the END box. 

S2. This question asks whether any of the children counted in S1 attended elementary school. 

Notice that the introductory phrase is different depending on whether the respondent reported 

more than one child in S1. If the respondent answers yes to this question, continue with the next 

question. Otherwise, go to the END box. 

S3. This question asks the number of children living in the household who attended 

elementary school. If, in S1, the respondent reported only one child living in the household, 

confirm the number, rather than asking the question. For example, say ‘So one child attended 

elementary school during the past year?’ Enter the number of children in the box. Back fill the 

zero if needed. 

S4. This question asks the respondent whether he/she is the parent or guardian of the children 

counted in S1. If the respondent answers No, ask to speak to a parent or guardian. If that person 

is not available, go to the Callback Box. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-8 

S5. Did (this child/any of these children who attend elementary school) participate in the 

school breakfast or the lunch program during the last school year? 

NO.......................................................... 01 (END) 

YES ........................................................ 02 (CONTINUE) 

S6. Are you familiar with the children’s summer program in your area at (LIST LOCAL SFSP SITES) 

that provide(s) breakfast and or lunch?

NO.......................................................... 01 (BOX A, LINE A) 

YES ........................................................ 02 (CONTINUE) 

S7. Did (this child/any of these children who attend elementary school) participate in (this 

program/one of these programs) during the summer? 

NO.......................................................... 01 (BOX A, LINE B) 

YES ........................................................ 02 (CONTINUE) 

S8. Was the summer program he/she/they attended at a public school? 

NO.......................................................... 01 (BOX A, LINE C) 

YES ........................................................ 02 (BOX A, LINE D) 

CALLBACK BOX 

I need to talk to a parent or guardian of the children. When is the best day and time to try to 

contact that person? 

[ENTER INFORMATION ON INFORMATION SHEET] 

Thank you for your time. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-9 

S5. This question asks the respondent whether any of the children in their household who 

attended elementary school, were in the school breakfast or lunch program in the past year. 

Notice that the introductory phrase is different depending on whether the respondent reported 

more than one child in S1. If the respondent answers No, go to the END box. Otherwise, 

continue. 

S6. This question asks whether the respondent is familiar with the SFSP programs in their area. 

Read the list of the programs that you recorded on the first page of the questionnaire. If the 

respondent answers No, the household is categorized as a ‘non-participating, non-familiar’ 

household in the study. Go to Box A, Line A to determine whether you can recruit the 

household. Otherwise continue. 

S7. This question asks whether the elementary school aged child participates in one of the SFSP 

programs that you named in S6. Notice that the introductory phrase is different depending on 

whether the respondent reported more than one child in S1. If the respondent answers No, the 

household is categorized as a ‘non-participating, familiar’ household in the study. Go to Box A, 

Line B to determine whether you can recruit the household. Otherwise, continue. 

S8. This question asks whether the SFSP program referred to in S7 was in a public school. If 

the respondent answers either No or Yes, the household is categorized as a ‘participating’ 

household in the study. To determine whether you can recruit the household, go to Box A, Line 

C for a No response; and Box A, Line D for a Yes response. 

3.2.4. Callback Box 

Question S4 will send you to the Callback Box if the respondent is not the parent or guardian. 

Read the statement verbatim. Record all information on the call record information sheet. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-10 

BOX A 

LINE LOOK AT RECRUITMENT GRID. DOES....... 

 A 

NO to S6 

Line A+B = ≤40? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TNN) 

 NO.........02 (END) 

B 

NO to S7 

Line A+B = ≤40? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TNF) 

 NO...........02 (END) 

C 

NO to S8 

LINE C+D = ≤10? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TP) 

 NO...........02 (END) 

D 

YES to S8 

LINE C+D = ≤10 and LINE D <4? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TP) 

 NO...........02 (END)

END 

I’m sorry, your household is not eligible to participate in this study because...... 

S1. there are no children 6 to 18 years old in your household. 

S2. there are no children who attend elementary school in your household. 

S5. none of the children in your household participated in the school breakfast or lunch program 

during the school year. 

LINE A. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who did 

not participate in a summer program. 

LINE B. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who did 

not participate in a summer program. 

LINE C. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who 

participated in a summer program. 

LINE D. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who 

participated in a summer program at a public school. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-11 

3.2.5. Box A 

This box asks you whether you have reached the quota for each respondent category so that you 

can decide whether to recruit the household or not. The following is a listing of what each line 

represents. 

Line A (NO to S6) = non-participant, not familiar with SFSP sites 

Line B (NO to S7) = non-participant, familiar with SFSP sites 

Line C (NO to S8) = participant, SFSP not in public school 

Line D (YES to S8) = participant, SFSP in public school 

You will recruit a total of 40 non-participants and 10 participants in your geographical area. 

Notice that the quota for non-participants includes Lines A and B and the quota for participants 

includes Lines C and D. You will answer the question in Box A by referring to your 

Recruitment Grid. Each time you recruit a household you will record it on the Recruitment 

Grid. This will give you a running list of the number and categories of households you have 

recruited. Below is a sample Recruitment Grid for Kansas City. 

Sample Recruitment Grid 

RECRUITMENT GRID FOR KANSAS CITY 

Screener 

Box A 

Line Type Record # Recruited Maximum 

A Non-participant, Not familiar IIIII IIIII III 

B Non-participant, Familiar IIIII IIII 

C Participant, SFSP not public 

school 

IIIII II 10 

D Participant, SFSP in public 

school 

II < 

The last column on the right tells you the maximum number of households you can recruit in a 

particular category. 

40 

Record here 

when you 

recruit a HH 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-12 

BOX A 

LINE LOOK AT RECRUITMENT GRID. DOES....... 

 A 

NO to S6 

Line A+B = ≤40? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TNN) 

 NO.........02 (END) 

B 

NO to S7 

Line A+B = ≤40? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TNF) 

 NO...........02 (END) 

C 

NO to S8 

LINE C+D = ≤10? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TP) 

 NO...........02 (END) 

D 

YES to S8 

LINE C+D = ≤10 and LINE D <4? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TP) 

 NO...........02 (END)

END 

I’m sorry, your household is not eligible to participate in this study because...... 

S1. there are no children 6 to 18 years old in your household. 

S2. there are no children who attend elementary school in your household. 

S5. none of the children in your household participated in the school breakfast or lunch program 

during the school year. 

LINE A. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who did 

not participate in a summer program. 

LINE B. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who did 

not participate in a summer program. 

LINE C. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who 

participated in a summer program. 

LINE D. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who 

participated in a summer program at a public school. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-13 

Recruiting Households in the ‘Non-participant’ Categories. Since ‘Non-participants’ are 

included in both Lines A and B (‘Not familiar’ and ‘Familiar’ categories), you need to make sure 

that you recruit no more than 40 households from Lines A and B combined. As shown in the 

sample Recruitment Grid, 22 households have been recruited in the Non-participant categories – 

13 who are not familiar with the SFSP programs and 9 that are familiar with the programs. 

Box A tells you to ‘LOOK AT THE RECRUITMENT GRID and answer the question: Does 

Line A+B =≤40? As shown in Step 3 below, A+B = 22, so you can recruit the household. 

RECRUITMENT GRID FOR KANSAS CITY 

Screener 

Box A 

Line Type Record # Recruited Maximum 

A Non-participant, Not familiar IIIII IIIII III 

B Non-participant, Familiar IIIII IIII 

C Participant, SFSP not public 

school 

IIIII II 

D Participant, SFSP in public 

school 

II 

40 

Step 3 

10; D <4 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-14 

BOX A 

LINE LOOK AT RECRUITMENT GRID. DOES....... 

 A 

NO to S6 

Line A+B = ≤40? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TNN) 

 NO.........02 (END) 

B 

NO to S7 

Line A+B = ≤40? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TNF) 

 NO...........02 (END) 

C 

NO to S8 

LINE C+D = ≤10? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TP) 

 NO...........02 (END) 

D 

YES to S8 

LINE C+D = ≤10 and LINE D <4? 

 YES.........01 (RECRUIT, TP) 

 NO...........02 (END)

END 

I’m sorry, your household is not eligible to participate in this study because...... 

S1. there are no children 6 to 18 years old in your household. 

S2. there are no children who attend elementary school in your household. 

S5. none of the children in your household participated in the school breakfast or lunch program 

during the school year. 

LINE A. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who did 

not participate in a summer program. 

LINE B. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who did 

not participate in a summer program. 

LINE C. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who 

participated in a summer program. 

LINE D. we have already recruited the number of households we need who have children who 

participated in a summer program at a public school. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 3-15 

Recruiting Households in the ‘Participant’ Categories. You will recruit a total of 10 

households in the ‘Participant’ categories in your geographic area. Notice that the quota is 

divided between Lines C and D. You can recruit up to 10 Participants from Line C (Participants 

who attend SFSP site not a public school) but no more than 4 Participants from Line D 

(Participants who attend SFSP sites at a public school). Ideally, we would like to recruit all 10 

Participants from Line C. 

Continue with Interview. If you answer ‘Yes’ to one of the Lines in Box A, it will direct you to 

the Extended Interview. The acronyms are as follows: 

TNN – Telephone, Non-participant, Not Familiar 

TNF – Telephone, Non-participant, Familiar 

TP – Telephone, Participant

Each questionnaire is marked at the top with the name of the interview. 

3.2.6. END Box 

The END box contains the statements that you will read when a respondent is either not eligible 

to participate in the study or you have met your quota for that category. Read the statements 

verbatim. You will read one of the first three statements if the household is not eligible based on 

the response to S1, S2, or S5. You will read one of the last four statements if you have met your 

quota for the category the household has been assigned to. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-1 

Chapter 4 - Telephone Interview Procedures 

 for the Extended Interviews 

The Telephone Extended Interview consists of three categories of interviews: 

• Non-participant, Not familiar with SFSP (TNN) 

• Non-participant, Familiar with SFSP (TNF) 

• Participant in SFSP programs (TP) 

Once you determine that you need to recruit the household, go directly to the questionnaire 

identified in Box A and read the introduction. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-2 

 TNN 

 

EXTENDED TELEPHONE INTERVIEW FOR ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLDS 

NONPARTICIPANT, NOT FAMILIAR W/ SFSP PROGRAMS (TNN) 

Your household is eligible to participate in this study. Now I want to ask you some questions about 

yourself and your family. 

BOX A 

IF S1=1, TNN7 

IF S1>1, CONTINUE 

TNN1. You said that you have (#CHILDREN IN S1) 6 to 18 years old who currently live in the household. 

Did any of these children participate in any summer program that provided breakfast and or 

lunch? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (TNN6) 

TNN2. How many participated in a summer program that provided breakfast and or lunch? 

|___|___| 

# CHILDREN 

TNN3. How many of those children who participated in a summer program that provided breakfast and 

or lunch were in elementary school this past year? 

ONE CHILD............................................01 (CONTINUE) 

MORE THAN ONE CHILD......................02 (TNN5) 

TNN4. What is the name of this child? 

_____________________________________________ (TNN8) 

TNN5. Of these children, what is the name of the one who had a birthday most recently? 

 (TNN8)

PUT LABEL ID HERE 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-3 

4.1 Telephone Non-participant, Not familiar with SFSP (TNN) 

Respondents who are administered this questionnaire represent households that have elementary 

school-aged children who participate in free or reduced price school breakfast and lunch 

programs, but who did not participate in SFSP AND are not familiar with the local SFSP sites. 

Following are the question-by-question specifications for the TNN questionnaire. 

BOX A. Box A determines whether you begin with TNN1 or skip to TNN7. If more than one 

child was reported living in the household on the Screener question S1, you will begin with 

TNN1. If only one child was reported, you will go to TNN7. 

TNN1-TNN6. This series of question is trying to identify an elementary school-aged child that 

participated in any summer program that offered breakfast and or lunch. The series begins with 

a question about all the children in the household and then singles out one elementary schoolaged child. 

TNN1. This question asks whether any children 6 through 18 participated in a summer program 

that offered breakfast and or lunch. If the respondent answers ‘Yes’ continue, otherwise go to 

TNN6. 

TNN2. This question asks for the number of children the respondent referred to in TNN1. Enter 

the number in the boxes. Back fill the zero if needed. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-4 

TNN 

EXTENDED TELEPHONE INTERVIEW FOR ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLDS 

NONPARTICIPANT, NOT FAMILIAR W/ SFSP PROGRAMS (TNN) 

Your household is eligible to participate in this study. Now I want to ask you some questions about 

yourself and your family. 

BOX A 

IF S1=1, TNN7 

IF S1>1, CONTINUE 

TNN1. You said that you have (#CHILDREN IN S1) 6 to 18 years old who currently live in the household. 

Did any of these children participate in any summer program that provided breakfast and or 

lunch? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (TNN6) 

TNN2. How many participated in a summer program that provided breakfast and or lunch? 

|___|___| 

# CHILDREN 

TNN3. How many of those children who participated in a summer program that provided breakfast and 

or lunch were in elementary school this past year? 

ONE CHILD............................................01 (CONTINUE) 

MORE THAN ONE CHILD......................02 (TNN5) 

TNN4. What is the name of this child? 

_____________________________________________ (TNN8) 

TNN5. Of these children, what is the name of the one who had a birthday most recently? 

_____________________________________________ (TNN8) 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-5 

TNN3. This question asks the respondent to report the number of children listed in TNN2 who 

were in elementary school in the past year. Code the response as ‘One child’ or “More than one 

child.’ If the respondent reports only one child, continue. Otherwise, go to TNN5. 

TNN4. This question asks for the name of the one child identified in TNN3. It is important to 

elicit the name of the child because the remaining questions refer to this child. You will go to 

TNN8 after completing this question. 

TNN5. You will ask this question if the response to TNN3 was ‘More than one child’. This 

question identifies one of the multiple elementary school-aged children reported in TNN3. You 

will go to TNN8 after completing this question. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-6 

TNN6. For this study I need to focus on just one child who is in elementary school. Could you tell me the 

first name of your child who is in elementary school who had a birthday most recently? 

_____________________________________________ (TNN8) 

TNN7. Can you please tell me the first name of your child who attended elementary school? 

___________________________________________________ 

TNN8. Is (CHILD’S NAME) a boy or girl? 

BOY........................................................ 01 

GIRL....................................................... 02 

TNN9. Is (he/she) Hispanic or Latino? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

TNN10. What is (his/her) race? Is (he/she) American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Black or African 

American, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, or White? 

 [CODE ALL THAT APPLY]

AMERICAN INDIAN OR ALASKA 

NATIVE .................................................. 01 

ASIAN..................................................... 02 

BLACK OR AFRICAN AMERICAN......... 03 

NATIVE HAWAIIAN OR OTHER 

PACIFIC ISLANDER .............................. 04 

WHITE.................................................... 05 

TNN11. How old was (CHILD NAME) as of June 1, 2004? 

|___|___| 

AGE 

TNN12. Did (CHILD NAME) attend a summer program in a public school this summer that provided 

breakfast and/or lunch? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-7 

TNN6. You will ask this question if the response to TNN1 was ‘No’ (no children participated in 

any summer program that offered breakfast and or lunch’). This question identifies one of the 

multiple children reported in TNN1. It is important to elicit the name of the child because the 

remaining questions refer to this child. You will go to TNN8 after completing this question. 

TNN7. Box A directs you to this question if only one child was reported in S1. It is important 

to elicit the name of the child because the remaining questions refer to this child. 

TNN8. This child asks for the child’s gender. 

TNN9. This question asks whether the child is of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. 

TNN10. This question asks the child’s race. If a respondent reports more than one race, code all 

that apply. If the respondent hesitates, re-read the response categories slowly. If the respondent 

reports a race other than the choices you read, re-read the choices and ask the respondent to 

categorize the response. If the respondent refuses to choose a category, write his or her response 

verbatim to the side of the question. 

TNN11. This question asks for the child’s age as of June 1, 2004. Record the age in the boxes. 

Back fill with leading zero if needed. 

TNN12. This question asks whether the child attended a summer program in a public school. The 

responses to TNN1 may have answered this question (if the respondent answered ‘No’ to the question 

about whether any children attended any summer program that offered breakfast and or lunch). However, 

respondents may not think of an academic program in a public school as a summer program that offers 

breakfast/lunch, so this question focuses on the location – public school.
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-8 

TNN13. Other than summer programs at the public school, are you aware of any programs in your 

community that offered breakfast and or lunch during the summer? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (TNN19) 

TNN14. Who sponsored the program(s) and what types of activities did the children participate in? 

 [IF CAN’T GIVE NAME OF PROGRAM, ASK LOCATION OR ADDRESS] 

Sponsor Type of activities 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

TNN15. Did (CHILD NAME) participate in (this program/any of these programs) this summer? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (TNN18) 

TNN16. About how many times a week (does/did) (CHILD NAME) attend this program? Would you say 

less than once a week, 1 to 2 times a week, or 3 or more times a week? 

LESS THAN ONCE A WEEK ................. 01 

1 TO 2 TIMES A WEEK ......................... 02 

3 OR MORE TIMES A WEEK................. 03 

TNN17. About how many weeks (does/did) the program run? Would you say 2 weeks or less, 3 to 4 

weeks, 5 to 6 weeks, 7 to 8 weeks, or more than 8 weeks? 

2 WEEKS OR LESS ............................... 01 

3-4 WEEKS ............................................ 02 

5-6 WEEKS ............................................ 03 

7-8 WEEKS ............................................ 04 

MORE THAN 8 WEEKS ......................... 05 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-9 

TNN13. This question is trying to elicit information about any other programs in the 

neighborhood that the respondent is aware of that offer meals during the summer. If the 

respondent answers ‘Yes’ go to TNN14 which begins a series of questions about the summer 

program the respondent is referring to. Otherwise, go to TNN19. 

TNN14. This question asks the respondent for the name and type of activities offered by the 

summer program referred to in TNN13. Record the name or sponsor in the first column of the 

table (e.g., G Street Baptist Church) and the type of activities (e.g., art class) in the second 

column. 

TNN15. As with TNN12, this question may have been answered earlier in the interview. 

However, this provides the respondent an opportunity to remember programs and activities that 

may have been of short duration. If the respondent responds ‘Yes’ continue. Otherwise, go to 

TNN18. 

TNN16-17. These questions ask about the length and duration of the program identified in 

TNN14. The length responses are grouped into number of times per week, whereas the duration 

responses are groups in number of weeks. It may be necessary to clarify an answer with the 

respondent. In that case, repeat the response categories by saying something like: ‘So would you 

say that was less than once a week, 1 to 2 times a week, or 3 or more times a week?’
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-10 

TNN18. Why didn’t (CHILD NAME) attend (the summer program/one of the summer programs)? 

CHILD’S FRIENDS DID NOT ATTEND ........................................ 01 

CHILD NOT INTERESTED/REFUSED TO GO............................. 02 

ACTIVITIES BORING ................................................................... 03 

WAS NOT OPEN ALL DAY .......................................................... 04 

WAS NOT CONVENIENT AND EASY TO GET TO...................... 05 

LOCATION UNSAFE.................................................................... 06 

NO TRANSPORTATION .............................................................. 07 

DIDN’T PROVIDE BREAKFAST................................................... 08 

DIDN’T PROVIDE LUNCH............................................................ 09 

MEALS WERE NOT OF HIGH QUALITY ..................................... 10 

COST TOO MUCH ....................................................................... 11 

DIDN’T OFFER EDUCATION OR SPORTS AND 

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES...................................................... 12 

DIDN’T PROVIDE DAY CARE SO ADULTS IN HH COULD 

WORK .......................................................................................... 13 

INADEQUATE SUPERVISION ..................................................... 14 

DIDN’T HAVE A GOOD REPUTATION ........................................ 15 

HE/SHE ATTENDED ANOTHER PROGRAM .............................. 16 

HE/SHE ATTENDED SUMMER SCHOOL ................................... 17 

HE/SHE WAS STAYING SOMEWHERE ELSE DURING THE 

DAY/FOR THE SUMMER............................................................. 18 

OTHER (SPECIFY)....................................................................... 19 

___________________________________________________ 

DK/CAN’T REMEMBER................................................................ 98 

REFUSED..................................................................................... 99 

TNN19. I’m going to list a few factors that may be important to you in deciding whether to send (CHILD 

NAME) to a summer program in the future. Is it important that the program (INSERT ITEM)? 

 YES NO

Provides breakfast?.................................................................... 01 02 

Provides lunch? .......................................................................... 01 02 

Be open all day? ........................................................................... 01 02 

Provides transportation?............................................................... 01 02 

Provides a safe environment?....................................................... 01 02 

BOX B 

IF TNN19 PROVIDES BREAKFAST? =01, CONTINUE 

OTHERWISE, BOX C 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-11 

TNN18. This question asks the respondent why the child did not attend the summer program 

identified in TNN14. There are 19 possible response items in addition to ‘Don’t know’ and 

‘Refused.’ If you cannot find a response item that accurately defines what the respondent 

reported, record the response to the side of the question and code the response once you have 

completed the interview. Response code 19 is an ‘Other, specify’ response. If you cannot code a 

respondent’s answer with the existing response codes, you can record the response here. 

TNN19. This question asks the respondent to decide whether certain characteristics of a summer 

program are important factors when deciding whether to send their child to a program. Read 

each of the response items and record ‘Yes’ or ‘No’. 

BOX B. This box directs you to continue if the respondent answered ‘Yes’ to the response item 

‘provides breakfast’. Otherwise, go to BOX C 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-12 

TNN20. How important is it that a summer program provides breakfast? Would you say very important, 

somewhat important, not too important, or not at all important? 

VERY IMPORTANT................................ 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT .................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT ......................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT..................... 04 

BOX C 

IF TNN19 PROVIDES LUNCH?=01, CONTINUE 

OTHERWISE, TNN22 

TNN21. How important is it that a summer program provides lunch? Would you say very important, 

somewhat important, not too important, or not at all important? 

VERY IMPORTANT................................ 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT .................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT ......................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT..................... 04 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-13 

TNN20. This question asks the respondent to report the degree of importance a free breakfast is 

to sending a child to a summer program. 

BOX C. This box directs you to continue if the respondent answered ‘Yes’ to the response item 

‘provides lunch. Otherwise, go to TNN22. 

TNN21. This question asks the respondent to report the degree of importance a free lunch is to 

sending a child to a summer program.
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-14 

TNN22. Now I’m going to read you several statements that people have made about their food situation. 

Please tell me whether the statement was often true, sometimes true, or never true for your 

household in the last 30 days. 

 The first statement is [READ 1ST STATEMENT]. Was that often true, sometimes true, or never 

true for your household in the last 30 days? 

 CODE RESPONSE AND GO TO NEXT STATEMENT. FOLLOW WITH: 

 Was that often, sometimes, or never true for your household in the last 30 days? 

 REPEAT UNTIL ALL STATEMENTS CODED. 

 SOME 

 OFTEN TIMES NEVER DK REF

a. I worried whether our food would run out before I got 

 money to buy more........................................................ 01 02 03 98 99 

b. The food that I bought just didn’t last, and I didn’t have 

 money to get more......................................................... 01 02 03 98 99 

c. We couldn’t afford to eat balanced meals...................... 01 02 03 98 99 

d. I relied on only a few kinds of low-cost food to feed my 

 (child/children) because I was running out of money to 

 buy food......................................................................... 01 02 03 98 99 

e. I couldn’t feed my (child/children) a balanced meal 

 because I couldn’t afford that......................................... 01 02 03 98 99 

TNN23. Now think about when (CHILD NAME) was in school during the regular school year that ended in 

May or June of this year. Did the school breakfast and lunch program during the regular school

year make a difference in your household food situation compared to the last 30 days? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

 

 

TNN24. Do you feel that your child eats more balanced meals and healthy foods during the regular 

school year or during the summer? 

Regular school year................................ 01 

Summer.................................................. 02 

Eats about the same............................... 03 

BOX D 

IF TNN23 OR 24= 01, CONTINUE; 

OTHERWISE, TNN26
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-15 

TNN22. This is a food security question. Read the introduction paragraph verbatim. Begin the 

second paragraph and fill in Statement ‘a’. Then read the response categories: ‘Was that often 

true, sometimes true, or never true for your household in the last 30 days?’ Circle the response 

and then read the next statement and the abbreviated response categories statement: ‘Was that 

often, sometimes, or never true for your household in the last 30 days? Emphasize the words in 

the response items that are underlined. 

TNN23. This question attempts to elicit information about whether the school breakfast and 

lunch program that the child participates in during the school year makes a difference in the 

household food situation. It asks the respondent to compare the household food situation when 

the child was in school and receiving school breakfast/lunch with the situation in the last 30 days 

when the child was out of school. Make sure that the respondent understands that he/she is 

comparing the food situation during the school year with the food situation when the child is not 

in school during the summer. 

TNN24. This question asks the respondent to compare the healthiness of the child’s meals 

during the school year to during the summer. Do not define ‘balanced meals’ and ‘healthy food’. 

It is whatever it means to the respondent. 

BOX D. Box D directs you to continue if the respondent answered ‘yes’ to TNN23 or ‘regular 

school year’ to TNN24. Otherwise, go to TNN26. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-16 

TNN25. You said that your food situation was different when your child was in school compared to the 

summer. How was your food situation different during the school year? CODE ALL THAT APPLY 

MORE QUANTITY OF FOOD AVAILABLE................................... 01 

MORE DIFFERENT TYPES OF FOOD AVAILABLE .................... 02 

MORE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES AVAILABLE........................ 03 

MORE MEAT AVAILABLE............................................................ 04 

MORE MILK PRODUCTS AVAILABLE......................................... 05 

MORE REGULAR MEAL TIMES .................................................. 06 

LESS FAST FOOD ....................................................................... 07 

OTHER (SPECIFY)....................................................................... 08 

___________________________________________________ 

DK .............................................................................................. 98 

REFUSED..................................................................................... 99 

TNN26. Who in your household is responsible for preparing breakfast and lunch for (CHILD NAME) during 

the summer when (he/she) eats at home? [CODE ALL THAT APPLY; IF SELF, CODE MOTHER 

OR FATHER] 

CHILD’S MOTHER/GUARDIAN ............. 01 

CHILD’S FATHER/GUARDIAN .............. 02 

CHILD’S SIBLING .................................. 03 

CHILD’S GRANDPARENT ..................... 04 

OTHER RELATIVE (SPECIFY) .............. 05 

_______________________________ 

SOMEONE ELSE (SPECIFY) ................ 06 

_______________________________ 

TNN27. During the summer where does (CHILD NAME) usually eat breakfast? 

HOME..................................................... 01 

DAY CARE (NOT SUMMER 

PROGRAM)............................................ 02 

SOMEWHERE ELSE (SPECIFY)........... 03 

_______________________________ 

DOESN’T EAT BREAKFAST.................. 04 (TNN30) 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-17 

TNN25. This question is a follow-up to the responses in TNN23 and TNN24 that suggest that 

the food situation in the household is better when the child is receiving school breakfast and/or 

lunch during the school year. This question asks how the situation is better. There are 7 

response codes in addition to ‘DK’ and ‘Refused’. Try to code the response in one of the 

existing codes. However, if you cannot code a respondent’s answer with the existing response 

codes, you can record the response in ‘Other, Specify’. 

TNN26. This question asks who is responsible for feeding the child at home during the summer. 

Response codes 05 and 06 are Other (Specify) categories that you can use if the respondent’s 

answer cannot be coded in one of the existing response items. Code all responses the respondent 

reports. If the respondent reports ‘self’, code ‘01’ or ‘02’. 

TNN27. This question asks where the child usually eats breakfast during the summer. Response 

code 03 is an Other (Specify) category that you can use if the respondent’s answer cannot be 

coded in one of the existing response items. If the respondent reports that the child does not eat 

breakfast, code ‘04’ and go to TNN30. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-18 

TNN28. How would you describe the amount of food (CHILD NAME) eats at a typical breakfast during 

the summer? Would you say (he/she) gets more than enough to eat, enough to eat, or not 

enough to eat? 

MORE THAN ENOUGH TO EAT............ 01 

ENOUGH TO EAT.................................. 02 

NOT ENOUGH TO EAT ......................... 03 

TNN29. How would you describe the kind of food (he/she) eats at a typical breakfast during the summer? 

Would you say it is very healthy and balanced, somewhat healthy and balanced, or not at all 

healthy and balanced? 

VERY HEALTHY AND BALANCED........ 01 

SOMEWHAT HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 02 

NOT AT ALL HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 03 

TNN30. During the summer where does (CHILD NAME) usually eat lunch? 

HOME..................................................... 01 

DAY CARE (NOT SUMMER 

PROGRAM)............................................ 02 

SOMEWHERE ELSE (SPECIFY)........... 03 

_______________________________ 

DOESN’T EAT LUNCH........................... 04 (TNN33) 

TNN31. How would you describe the amount of food (CHILD NAME) eats at a typical lunch during the 

summer? Would you say (he/she) gets more than enough to eat, enough to eat, or not enough to 

eat? 

MORE THAN ENOUGH TO EAT............ 01 

ENOUGH TO EAT.................................. 02 

NOT ENOUGH TO EAT ......................... 03 

TNN32. How would you describe the kind of food (he/she) eats at a typical lunch during the summer? 

Would you say it is very healthy and balanced, somewhat healthy and balanced, or not at all 

healthy and balanced? 

VERY HEALTHY AND BALANCED........ 01 

SOMEWHAT HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 02 

NOT AT ALL HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 03 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-19 

TNN28-TNN29. These questions ask about the amount and kind of food the child eats at a 

typical breakfast during the summer. For TNN29, do not define ‘healthy’ and ‘balanced’. The 

definition is whatever it means to the respondent. 

TNN30. This question asks where the child usually eats lunch during the summer. Response 

code 03 is an Other (Specify) category that you can use if the respondent’s answer cannot be 

coded in one of the existing response items. If the respondent reports that the child does not eat 

lunch, code ‘04’ and go to TNN33. 

TNN31-TNN32. These questions ask about the amount and kind of food the child eats at 

a typical lunch during the summer. For TNN32, do not define ‘healthy’ and ‘balanced’. 

The definition is whatever it means to the respondent. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-20 

TNN33. Who in your household is responsible for watching (CHILD NAME) (and the other children) during 

the day in the summer? [CODE ALL THAT APPLY; IF SELF, CODE MOTHER OR FATHER] 

CHILD’S MOTHER/GUARDIAN ............. 01 

CHILD’S FATHER/GUARDIAN .............. 02 

CHILD’S SIBLING .................................. 03 

CHILD’S GRANDPARENT ..................... 04 

OTHER RELATIVE (SPECIFY) .............. 05 

_______________________________ 

SOMEONE ELSE (SPECIFY) ................ 06 

_______________________________ 

TNN34. Were there periods of time during the day in the summer when you needed to cover child care 

but there was no one to watch (CHILD NAME)? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (INTRO TO 

TNN36) 

TNN35. How much of a problem was this for your household? Would you say it was a very large problem, 

somewhat of a problem, not much of a problem, or not at all a problem? 

VERY LARGE PROBLEM ...................... 01 

SOMEWHAT OF A PROBLEM............... 02 

NOT MUCH OF A PROBLEM ................ 03 

NOT AT ALL A PROBLEM ..................... 04 

Finally, I would like to ask you a few questions about yourself and other members of your family. 

TNN36. First, how old are you? 

|___|___| 

AGE 

TNN37. CODE GENDER 

MALE ..................................................... 01 

FEMALE................................................. 02 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-21 

TNN33. This question asks who is responsible for watching the child during the day in the 

summer. Response codes 05 and 06 are Other (Specify) categories that you can use if the 

respondent’s answer cannot be coded in one of the existing response items. Code all responses 

the respondent reports. If the respondent reports ‘self’, code ‘01’ or ‘02’. 

TNN34. This question is trying to determine whether child care was a problem during the 

summer. If the respondent answer ‘Yes’ continue. Otherwise, go to the introduction before 

TN36. 

TNN35. This question asks the respondent to assess the degree of the problem identified in 

TNN34. 

TNN36-TNN42. These final questions collect information about the respondent and other 

members of the family. 

TNN36. This question asks the respondent’s age. Record the age in the boxes. 

TNN37. This question asks the respondent’s gender. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-22 

TNN38. What is the highest grade or year of regular school you ever completed? 

|___|___| HIGHEST GRADE COMPLETED 

OR 

|___|___| HIGHEST YEAR COMPLETED 

TNN39. Are you employed outside the home during the day? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

TNN40. Are you now married, living with someone as married, widowed, divorced, separated, or have you 

never been married? 

MARRIED............................................... 01 

LIVING AS MARRIED ............................ 02 

WIDOWED ............................................. 03 (TNN42) 

DIVORCED ............................................ 04 (TNN42) 

SEPARATED.......................................... 05 (TNN42) 

NEVER MARRIED.................................. 06 (TNN42) 

TNN41. Is your (husband/wife/partner) employed outside the home during the day? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

TNN42. Are there (any/any other) adults 19 years old or older in the household who are home during the 

day? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

END 

Thank you for your time. Someone may contact you again to follow-up on some of the information you 

provided us. If you agree to a second interview you will be paid $20. 

Before I go, may I verify that our records have your correct address and telephone numbers? 

[READ ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBERS]. 

When is the best time to reach you during the day and evening? 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-23 

TNN38. This question asks the highest grade or number of years the respondent completed in 

regular school. Regular school refers to elementary school through college. It includes business, 

technical or vocational school. 

TNN39. This question asks whether the respondent has a job outside the home. 

TNN40. This question asks the respondent’s present marital status. If the respondent was 

married, divorced, and then remarried; his/her present status is ‘married’. If the respondent is 

‘married’ or ‘living as married’, continue. Otherwise, go to TNN42. 

TNN41. This question asks whether the respondent’s partner is employed outside the home. 

TNN42. Other than the respondent and his/her partner, this question asks whether there are 

other adult members of the household that are at home during the day. 

END. Read this paragraph verbatim. This statement thanks the respondent and reminds them 

that someone may contact them again for an in-person interview. It also introduces the $20 

payment that will be provided if the respondent completes a second interview. Finally, you will 

confirm the contact information and ask for a good time to contact them again. If the respondent 

provides different contact information, record it on the information sheet. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-24 

TNF

TELEPHONE EXTENDED FOR ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLDS 

NONPARTICIPANT (FAMILIAR W/ SFSP PROGRAMS) (TNF) 

Your household is eligible to participate in this study. Now I want to ask you some questions about your 

family. 

BOX A 

IF S1=1, TNF7 

IF S1>1, CONTINUE 

TNF1. You said that you have (#CHILDREN IN S1) 6 to 18 years old who currently live in the household. 

Did any of these children participate in any summer program that provided breakfast and or 

lunch? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (TNF6) 

TNF2. How many participated in a summer program that provided breakfast and or lunch? 

|___|___| 

# CHILDREN 

TNF3. How many of the children who participated in a summer program that provided breakfast and or 

lunch were in elementary school this past year? 

ONE CHILD............................................01 (CONTINUE) 

MORE THAN ONE CHILD...................... 02 (TNF5) 

TNF4. What is the name of this child? 

_____________________________________________ (TNF8) 

TNF5. Of these children, what is the name of the one who had a birthday most recently? 

_____________________________________________ (TNF8) 

 

TNF6. For this study I need to focus on one child who is in elementary school. Could you tell me the first 

name of your child who is in elementary school who had a birthday most recently? 

_____________________________________________ (TNF8) 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-25 

4.2 Telephone Non-participant, familiar with SFSP (TNF) 

Respondents who are administered this questionnaire represent households that have elementary 

school-aged children who participate in free or reduced price school breakfast and lunch 

programs, but who did not participate in SFSP AND are familiar with the local SFSP sites. 

Following are the question-by-question specifications for the TNF questionnaire. 

BOX A. Box A determines whether you begin with TNF1 or skip to TNF7. If more than one 

child was reported living in the household on the Screener question S1, you will begin with 

TNF1. If only one child was reported, you will go to TNF7. 

TNF1-TNF6. If an elementary school-aged child participated in any summer program that 

offered breakfast and or lunch, this series of questions will identify that child (or children). The 

series begins with a question about all the children in the household and then singles out one 

elementary school-aged child. 

TNF1. This question asks whether any children 6 through 18 participated in a summer program 

that offered breakfast and or lunch. If the respondent answers ‘Yes’ continue, otherwise go to 

TNF6. 

TNF2. This question asks for the number of children the respondent referred to in TNF1. Enter 

the number in the boxes. Back fill the zero if needed. 

TNF3. This question asks the respondent to report the number of children counted in TNF2 who 

were in elementary school in the past year. Code the response as ‘One child’ or “More than one 

child.’ If the respondent reports only one child, continue. Otherwise, go to TNF5. 

. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-26 

TELEPHONE EXTENDED FOR ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLDS 

NONPARTICIPANT (FAMILIAR W/ SFSP PROGRAMS) (TNF) 

Your household is eligible to participate in this study. Now I want to ask you some questions about your 

family. 

BOX A 

IF S1=1, TNF7 

IF S1>1, CONTINUE 

TNF1. You said that you have (#CHILDREN IN S1) 6 to 18 years old who currently live in the household. 

Did any of these children participate in any summer program that provided breakfast and or 

lunch? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (TNF6) 

TNF2. How many participated in a summer program that provided breakfast and or lunch? 

|___|___| 

# CHILDREN 

TNF3. How many of the children who participated in a summer program that provided breakfast and or 

lunch were in elementary school this past year? 

ONE CHILD............................................01 (CONTINUE) 

MORE THAN ONE CHILD...................... 02 (TNF5) 

TNF4. What is the name of this child? 

_____________________________________________ (TNF8) 

TNF5. Of these children, what is the name of the one who had a birthday most recently? 

_____________________________________________ (TNF8) 

 

TNF6. For this study I need to focus on one child who is in elementary school. Could you tell me the first 

name of your child who is in elementary school who had a birthday most recently? 

_____________________________________________ (TNF8) 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-27 

TNF4. This question asks for the name of the one child identified in TNF3. It is important to 

elicit the name of the child because the remaining questions refer to this child. You will go to 

TNF8 after completing this question. 

TNF5. You will ask this question if the response to TNF3 was ‘More than one child’. This 

question identifies one of the multiple elementary school-aged children reported in TNF3. You 

will go to TNF8 after completing this question. 

TNF6. You will ask this question if the response to TNF1 was ‘No’ (no children participated in 

any summer program that offered breakfast and or lunch’). This question identifies one of the 

multiple children reported in TNF1. It is important to elicit the name of the child because the 

remaining questions refer to this child. You will go to TNF8 after completing this question 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-28 

TNF7. Can you please tell me the first name of your child who is in elementary school? 

___________________________________________________ 

TNF8. Is (CHILD NAME) a boy or girl? 

BOY........................................................ 01 

GIRL....................................................... 02 

TNF9. Is (he/she) Hispanic or Latino? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

TNF10. What is (his/her) race? Is (he/she) American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Black or African 

American, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, or White? [CODE ALL THAT APPLY] 

AMERICAN INDIAN OR ALASKA 

NATIVE .................................................. 01 

ASIAN..................................................... 02 

BLACK OR AFRICAN AMERICAN......... 03 

NATIVE HAWAIIAN OR OTHER 

PACIFIC ISLANDER .............................. 04 

WHITE.................................................... 05 

TNF11. How old was (CHILD NAME) as of June 1, 2004? 

|___|___| 

AGE 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-29 

TNF7. Box A directs you to this question if only one child was reported in S1. It is important to 

elicit the name of the child because the remaining questions refer to this child. 

TNF8. This asks for the child’s gender. 

TNF9. This question asks whether the child is of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. 

TNF10. This question asks the child’s race. If a respondent reports more than one race, code all 

that apply. If the respondent hesitates, re-read the response categories slowly. If the respondent 

reports a race other than the choices you read, re-read the choices and ask the respondent to 

categorize the response. 

TNF11. This question asks for the child’s age. Record the age in the boxes. Back fill with 

leading zero if needed. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-30 

TNF12. Can you tell me why (CHILD NAME) did not attend any of the programs I mentioned? [ASK 

ABOUT EACH SFSP SITE/PROGRAM. CODE ALL THAT APPLY.]

CHILD’S FRIENDS DID NOT ATTEND ........................................ 01 

CHILD NOT INTERESTED/REFUSED TO GO ............................ 02

ACTIVITIES BORING ................................................................... 03 

WAS NOT OPEN ALL DAY .......................................................... 04 

WAS NOT CONVENIENT AND EASY TO GET TO...................... 05 

LOCATION UNSAFE.................................................................... 06 

NO TRANSPORTATION .............................................................. 07 

DIDN’T SERVE BREAKFAST....................................................... 08 

DIDN’T SERVE LUNCH................................................................ 09 

MEALW WERE NOT OF HIGH QUALITY .................................... 10 

COST TOO MUCH ....................................................................... 11 

DIDN’T OFFER EDUCATION OR SPORTS AND 

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES...................................................... 12 

DIDN’T PROVIDE DAY CARE SO ADULTS IN HH COULD 

WORK .......................................................................................... 13 

INADEQUATE SUPERVISION ..................................................... 14 

DIDN’T HAVE A GOOD REPUTATION ........................................ 15 

HE/SHE ATTENDED ANOTHER PROGRAM ............................. 16 

HE/SHE ATTENDED SUMMER SCHOOL ................................... 17 

HE/SHE WAS STAYING SOMEWHERE ELSE DURING THE 

DAY/FOR THE SUMMER............................................................. 18 

OTHER (SPECIFY)....................................................................... 19 

___________________________________________________ 

DK/CAN’T REMEMBER................................................................ 98 

REFUSED..................................................................................... 99 

BOX B 

IF TNF12=02, CONTINUE; 

OTHERWISE, BOX C

TNF13. Why didn’t (CHILD NAME) want to go to the (NAME SFSP SITE)? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-31 

TNF12. This question asks the respondent why the child did not attend any of the summer 

programs identified in the Screener. There are 19 possible response items in addition to ‘Don’t 

know’ and ‘Refused.’ If you cannot find a response item that accurately defines what the 

respondent reported, record the response to the side of the question and code the response once 

you have completed the interview. Response code 19 is an ‘Other, specify’ response. If you 

cannot code a respondent’s answer with the existing response codes, you can record the response 

here. Notice that two responses are bolded text: ‘Child not interested/refused to go’ and 

‘He/She attended another program’. Follow-up questions will be asked if the respondent reports 

either of these responses. 

BOX B. This box directs you to continue with the questions if the response to TNF12 is ‘02’ – 

‘Child not interested/refused to go’. Otherwise, go to BOX C. 

TNF13. This is an open-ended question. Record verbatim the reason the respondent gives for 

the child not wanting to go to the SFSP site 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-32 

BOX C 

IF TNF12=16, CONTINUE 

OTHERWISE, TNF21

TNF14. Did the summer program (CHILD NAME) attended provide breakfast, or lunch, or both? 

YES, BREAKFAST................................. 01 

YES, LUNCH.......................................... 02 

YES, BOTH ............................................ 03 

NO.......................................................... 04 (TNF21) 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-33 

BOX C. This box directs you to continue with the questions if the response to TNF12 is ‘16’ – 

‘He/She attended another program.’ Otherwise, go to TNF18. 

TNF14. This question asks whether the summer program the child attended provided breakfast, 

lunch, or both. If the respondent answers ‘No’, go to TNF21. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-34 

TNF15. TNF16. TNF17. 

What program(s) did (CHILD 

NAME) participate in? [RECORD 

ALL PROGRAMS MENTIONED. 

THEN ASK TNF16-20 FOR EACH 

PROGRAM]

Can you tell me the most important reasons 

(CHILD NAME) attended (NAME OF 

PROGRAM)? 

How important was the breakfast to 

(CHILD NAME) attending the program? 

Would you say very important, somewhat 

important, not too important, or not at all 

important? 

. 

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

#1 REASON: ____________________ 

#2 REASON: ____________________ 

#3 REASON: ____________________ 

VERY IMPORTANT.................................. 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT ...................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT ........................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT ....................... 04 

DID NOT PROVIDE BREAKFAST ........... 05 

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

#1 REASON: ____________________ 

#2 REASON: ____________________ 

#3 REASON: ____________________ 

VERY IMPORTANT.................................. 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT ...................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT ........................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT ....................... 04 

DID NOT PROVIDE BREAKFAST ........... 05 

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

#1 REASON: ____________________ 

#2 REASON: ____________________ 

#3 REASON: ____________________ 

VERY IMPORTANT.................................. 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT ...................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT ........................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT ....................... 04 

DID NOT PROVIDE BREAKFAST ........... 05 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-35 

TNF15-20. This series of questions is set up in a grid format. It is designed to capture all 

summer programs the child attended that offered breakfast and or lunch. You will document the 

summer programs in the column in TNF15. Then go back to the first summer program recorded 

and ask TNF16-TNF20 for each program. 

TNF15. This question asks the respondent to name all summer programs the child attended that 

offered breakfast and/or lunch. 

TNF16. This is an open-ended question. The respondent is asked to provide the three most 

important reasons the child attended the specific program. Try to record the response verbatim. 

TNF17. This question asks the respondent to report the degree of importance a free breakfast is 

to sending a child to a summer program. Code ‘05’ if the program did not provide breakfast
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-36 

TNF18. TNF19. TNF20. 

How important was the lunch to (CHILD 

NAME) attending the program? Would 

you say very important, somewhat 

important, not too important, or not at all 

important?

About how many times a week does/did 

(CHILD NAME) attend this (PROGRAM 

NAME)? Would you say less than once a week, 

1 to 2 times a week, or 3 or more times a 

week? 

About how many weeks (does/did) the 

program run? Would you say 2 weeks or 

less, 3 to 4 weeks, 5 to 6 weeks, 7 to 8 

weeks, or more than 8 weeks? 

VERY IMPORTANT ................................. 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT...................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT........................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT ...................... 04 

DID NOT PROVIDE LUNCH.................... 05 

LESS THAN ONCE A WEEK....................................01 

1 TO 2 TIMES A WEEK, OR.....................................02 

3 OR MORE TIMES A WEEK...................................03 

2 WEEKS OR LESS................................. 01 

3-4 WEEKS .............................................. 02 

5-6 WEEKS .............................................. 03 

7-8 WEEKS .............................................. 04 

MORE THAN 8 WEEKS........................... 05 

VERY IMPORTANT ................................. 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT...................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT........................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT ...................... 04 

DID NOT PROVIDE LUNCH.................... 05 

LESS THAN ONCE A WEEK....................................01 

1 TO 2 TIMES A WEEK, OR.....................................02 

3 OR MORE TIMES A WEEK...................................03 

2 WEEKS OR LESS................................. 01 

3-4 WEEKS .............................................. 02 

5-6 WEEKS .............................................. 03 

7-8 WEEKS .............................................. 04 

MORE THAN 8 WEEKS........................... 05 

VERY IMPORTANT ................................. 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT...................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT........................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT ...................... 04 

DID NOT PROVIDE LUNCH.................... 05 

LESS THAN ONCE A WEEK....................................01 

1 TO 2 TIMES A WEEK, OR.....................................02 

3 OR MORE TIMES A WEEK...................................03 

2 WEEKS OR LESS................................. 01 

3-4 WEEKS .............................................. 02 

5-6 WEEKS .............................................. 03 

7-8 WEEKS .............................................. 04 

MORE THAN 8 WEEKS........................... 05 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-37 

TNF18. This question asks the respondent to report the degree of importance a free lunch is to 

sending a child to a summer program. Code ‘05’ if the summer program did not provide lunch. 

TNF19-20. These questions ask about the length and duration of the program recorded in 

TNF15. The length responses are grouped into number of times per week, whereas the duration 

responses are groups in number of weeks. It may be necessary to clarify an answer with the 

respondent. In that case, repeat the response categories by saying something like: ‘So would you 

say that was less than once a week, 1 to 2 times a week, or 3 or more times a week?’ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-38 

TNF21. Other than summer programs at the public school, are you aware of any other programs in your 

community that offered breakfast and or lunch during the summer? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (TNF23) 

TNF22. Can you tell me who sponsored the program(s) and the type of activities the children participated 

in? [IF DON’T KNOW NAME, ASK LOCATION OR ADDRESS] 

Sponsor Type of activities 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

TNF23. Now I’m going to read you several statements that people have made about their food situation. 

Please tell me whether the statement was often true, sometimes true, or never true for your 

household in the last 30 days. 

 The first statement is [READ STATEMENT a]. Was that often true, sometimes true, or never true 

for your household in the last 30 days? 

 CODE RESPONSE AND GO TO NEXT STATEMENT. FOLLOW WITH: 

 Was that often, sometimes, or never true for your household in the last 30 days? 

 REPEAT UNTIL ALL STATEMENTS CODED. 

 SOME 

 OFTEN TIMES NEVER DK REF

a. I worried whether our food would run out before I got 

 money to buy more........................................................ 01 02 03 98 99 

b. The food that I bought just didn’t last, and I didn’t have 

 money to get more......................................................... 01 02 03 98 99 

c. We couldn’t afford to eat balanced meals...................... 01 02 03 98 99 

d. I relied on only a few kinds of low-cost food to feed my 

 (child/children) because I was running out of money to 

 buy food......................................................................... 01 02 03 98 99 

e. I couldn’t feed my (child/children) a balanced meal 

 because I couldn’t afford that......................................... 01 02 03 98 99 

TNF24. Now think about when (CHILD NAME) was in school during the regular school year that ended 

in May or June of this year. Did the school breakfast and lunch program during the regular 

school year make a difference in your household food situation compared to the last 30 days 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-39 

TNF21. Respondents who did not report ‘He/She attended another program’ in TNF12 will be 

asked this question. The question asks whether they are aware of any other programs in the 

community that offer breakfast and/or lunch, excluding programs in a public school. If the 

response is ‘No’ go to TNF23. 

TNF22. This question asks the respondent for the name and type of activities offered by the 

summer program referred to in TNF21. Record the name or sponsor in the first column of the 

table (e.g., G Street Baptist Church) and the type of activities (e.g., art class) in the second 

column. 

TNF23. This is a food security question. Read the introduction paragraph verbatim. Begin the 

second paragraph and fill in Statement ‘a’. Then read the response categories: ‘Was that often 

true, sometimes true, or never true for your household in the last 30 days?’ Circle the response 

and then read the next statement and the abbreviated response categories statement: ‘Was that 

often, sometimes, or never true for your household in the last 30 days? Emphasize the words in 

the response items that are underlined. 

TNF24. This question attempts to elicit information about whether the school breakfast and 

lunch program that the child participates in during the school year makes a difference in the 

household food situation. It asks the respondent to compare the household food situation when 

the child was in school and receiving school breakfast/lunch with the situation in the last 30 days 

when the child was out of school. Make sure that the respondent understands that he/she is 

comparing the food situation during the school year with the food situation when the child is not 

in school during the summer. 

 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-40 

TNF25. Does your child eat more balanced meals and healthy foods during the regular school year or 

during the summer? 

RGULAR SCHOOL YEAR...................... 01 

SUMMER ............................................... 02 

EATS ABOUT THE SAME...................... 03 

BOX D 

IF TNF24 OR 25=01, CONTINUE; 

OTHERWISE, TNF27

TNF26. You said that your food situation was different when your child was in school compared to the 

summer. How was your food situation different during the school year? CODE ALL THAT APPLY. 

MORE QUANTITY OF FOOD TO EAT......................................... 01 

MORE DIFFERENT TYPES OF FOOD TO EAT .......................... 02 

MORE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES TO EAT .............................. 03 

MORE MEAT TO EAT ................................................................. 04 

MORE MILK PRODUCTS TO EAT............................................... 05 

MORE REGULAR MEAL TIMES .................................................. 06 

LESS FAST FOOD ....................................................................... 07 

OTHER (SPECIFY)....................................................................... 08 

___________________________________________ 

DK .............................................................................................. 98 

REFUSED..................................................................................... 99 

TNF27. Who in your household is responsible for preparing breakfast and lunch for (CHILD NAME) during 

the summer when (he/she) eats at home? [CODE ALL THAT APPLY; IF SELF, CODE MOTHER 

OR FATHER] 

CHILD’S MOTHER/GUARDIAN ............. 01 

CHILD’S FATHER/GUARDIAN .............. 02 

CHILD’S SIBLING .................................. 03 

CHILD’S GRANDPARENT ..................... 04 

OTHER RELATIVE (SPECIFY) .............. 05 

_______________________________ 

SOMEONE ELSE (SPECIFY) ................ 06 

_______________________________ 

TNF28. During the summer where does (CHILD NAME) usually eat breakfast? 

HOME..................................................... 01 

DAY CARE (NOT SUMMER 

PROGRAM)............................................ 02 

SOMEWHERE ELSE (SPECIFY)........... 03 

_______________________________ 

DOESN’T EAT BREAKFAST..................04 (TNF31) 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-41 

TNF25. This question asks the respondent to compare the healthiness of the child’s meals 

during the school year to during the summer. Do not define ‘balanced meals’ and ‘healthy food’. 

It is whatever it means to the respondent. 

BOX D. Box D directs you to continue if the respondent answered ‘yes’ to TNF24 or ‘regular 

school year’ to TNF25. Otherwise, go to TNF27. 

TNF26. This question is a follow-up to the responses in TNF24 and TNF25 that suggest that the 

food situation in the household is better when the child is receiving school breakfast and/or lunch 

during the school year. This question asks how the situation is better. There are 7 response 

codes in addition to ‘Other, Specify’. Try to code the response in one of the existing codes. 

However, if you cannot code a respondent’s answer with the existing response codes, you can 

record the response here. 

TNF27. This question asks who is responsible for feeding the child at home during the summer. 

Response codes 05 and 06 are Other (Specify) categories that you can use if the respondent’s 

answer cannot be coded in one of the existing response items. Code all responses the respondent 

reports. If the respondent reports ‘self’, code ‘01’ or ‘02’. 

TNF28. This question asks where the child usually eats breakfast during the summer. Response 

code 03 is an Other (Specify) category that you can use if the respondent’s answer cannot be 

coded in one of the existing response items. If the respondent reports that the child does not eat 

breakfast, code ‘04’ and go to TNF31. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-42 

TNF29. How would you describe the amount of food (CHILD NAME) eats at a typical breakfast during 

the summer? Would you say (he/she) gets more than enough to eat, enough to eat, or not 

enough to eat? 

MORE THAN ENOUGH TO EAT............ 01 

ENOUGH TO EAT.................................. 02 

NOT ENOUGH TO EAT ......................... 03 

TNF30. How would you describe the kind of food (CHILD NAME) ate at a typical breakfast during the 

summer? Would you say it is very healthy and balanced, somewhat healthy and balanced, or not 

at all healthy and balanced? 

VERY HEALTHY AND BALANCED........ 01 

SOMEWHAT HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 02 

NOT AT ALL HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 03 

TNF31. During the summer where does (CHILD NAME) usually eat lunch? 

HOME..................................................... 01 

DAY CARE (NOT SUMMER PROGRAM)02 

SOMEWHERE ELSE (SPECIFY)........... 03 

_______________________________ 

DOESN’T EAT LUNCH...........................04 (TNF34) 

TNF32. How would you describe the amount of food (CHILD NAME) eats at a typical lunch during the 

summer? Would you say (he/she) gets more than enough to eat, enough to eat, or not enough to 

eat? 

MORE THAN ENOUGH TO EAT............ 01 

ENOUGH TO EAT.................................. 02 

NOT ENOUGH TO EAT ......................... 03 

TNF33. How would you describe the kind of food (CHILD NAME) eats at a typical lunch during the 

summer? Would you say it is very healthy and balanced, somewhat healthy and balanced, or not 

at all healthy and balanced? 

VERY HEALTHY AND BALANCED........ 01 

SOMEWHAT HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 02 

NOT AT ALL HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 03 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-43 

TNF29-TNF30. These questions ask about the amount and kind of food the child eats at a 

typical breakfast during the summer. For TNF30, do not define ‘healthy’ and ‘balanced’. The 

definition is whatever it means to the respondent. 

TNF31. This question asks where the child usually eats lunch during the summer. Response 

code 03 is an Other (Specify) category that you can use if the respondent’s answer cannot be 

coded in one of the existing response items. If the respondent reports that the child does not eat 

lunch, code ‘04’ and go to TNF34. 

TNF32-TNF33. These questions ask about the amount and kind of food the child eats at a 

typical lunch during the summer. For TNF33, do not define ‘healthy’ and ‘balanced’. The 

definition is whatever it means to the respondent. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-44 

TNF34. Who in your household is responsible for watching (CHILD NAME) (and the other children) during 

the day in the summer? [CODE ALL THAT APPLY; IF SELF, CODE MOTHER OR FATHER] 

CHILD’S MOTHER/GUARDIAN ............. 01 

CHILD’S FATHER/GUARDIAN .............. 02 

CHILD’S SIBLING .................................. 03 

CHILD’S GRANDPARENT ..................... 04 

OTHER RELATIVE (SPECIFY) .............. 05 

_______________________________ 

SOMEONE ELSE (SPECIFY) ................ 06 

_______________________________ 

TNF35. Were there periods of time during the day in the summer when you needed to cover child care 

but there was no one to watch (CHILD NAME)? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (INTRO TO 

TNF37) 

TNF36. How much of a problem was this for your household? Would you say it was a very large problem, 

somewhat of a problem, not much of a problem, or not at all a problem? 

VERY LARGE PROBLEM ...................... 01 

SOMEWHAT OF A PROBLEM............... 02 

NOT MUCH OF A PROBLEM ................ 03 

NOT AT ALL A PROBLEM .................... 04 

Finally, I would like to ask you a few questions about yourself and other members of your family. 

TNF37. First, how old are you? 

|___|___| 

AGE 

TNF38. CODE GENDER 

MALE ..................................................... 01 

FEMALE................................................. 02 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-45 

TNF34. This question asks who is responsible for watching the child during the day in the 

summer. This refers to the person responsible for taking care of the child all day, even though 

there may be periods of time when the child is not with this person. Response codes 05 and 06 

are Other (Specify) categories that you can use if the respondent’s answer cannot be coded in one 

of the existing response items. Code all responses the respondent reports. If the respondent 

reports ‘self’, code ‘01’ or ‘02’. 

TNF35. This question is trying to determine whether child care was a problem during the 

summer. If the respondent answer ‘Yes’ continue. Otherwise, go to the introduction before 

TNF37. 

TNF36. This question asks the respondent to assess the degree of the problem identified in 

TNF35. 

TNF37-TNF43. These final questions collect information about the respondent and other 

members of the family. 

TNF37. This question asks the respondent’s age. Record the age in the boxes. 

TNN37. This question asks the respondent’s gender. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-46 

TNF39. What is the highest grade or year of regular school you ever completed? 

NONE, OR GRADES 1-8 .......................................................... 01 

HS INCOMPLETE - GRADES 9-11........................................... 02 

HS GRADUATE - 12 GRADE OR GED..................................... 03 

BUSINESS, TECHNICAL OR 

VOCATIONAL SCHOOL AFTER HS......................................... 04 

SOME COLLEGE OR 2YR DEGREE........................................ 05 

COLLEGE GRADUATE............................................................. 06 

GRADUATE OR PROIFESSIONAL 

SCHOOL OR OTHER ............................................................... 07 

DK............................................................................................. 08 

REFUSED................................................................................. 09 

TNF40. Are you employed outside the home during the day? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

TNF41. Are you now married, living with someone as married, widowed, divorced, separated, or have you 

never been married? 

MARRIED............................................... 01 

LIVING AS MARRIED ............................ 02 

WIDOWED ............................................. 03 (TNF43) 

DIVORCED ............................................ 04 (TNF43) 

SEPARATED.......................................... 05 (TNF43) 

NEVER MARRIED.................................. 06 (TNF43) 

TNF42. Is your (husband/wife/partner) employed outside the home during the day? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

TNF43. Are there (any/any other) adults 19 years old or older in the household who are home during the 

day? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

END 

Thank you for your time. Someone may contact you again to follow-up on some of the information you 

provided us. If you agree to a second interview you will be paid $20. 

Before I go, may I verify that our records have your correct address and telephone numbers? 

[READ ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBERS]. 

When is the best time to reach you during the day and evening?
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-47 

TNF39. This question asks the highest grade or number of years the respondent completed in 

regular school. Regular school refers to elementary school through college. It includes business, 

technical or vocational school. 

TNF40. This question asks whether the respondent has a job outside the home. 

TNF41. This question asks the respondent’s present marital status. If the respondent was 

married, divorced, and then remarried; his/her present status is ‘married’. If the respondent is 

‘married’ or ‘living as married’, continue. Otherwise, go to TNF43. 

TNF42. This question asks whether the respondent’s partner is employed outside the home. 

TNF43. Other than the respondent and his/her partner, this question asks whether there are other 

adult members of the household that are at home during the day. 

END. Read this paragraph verbatim. This statement thanks the respondent and reminds them 

that someone may contact them again for an in-person interview. It also introduces the $20 

payment that will be provided if the respondent completes a second interview. Finally, you will 

confirm the contact information and ask for a good time to contact them again. If the respondent 

provides different contact information, record it on the information sheet.
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-48 

TELEPHONE EXTENDED FOR ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLDS 

PARTICIPANT IN SFSP PROGRAMS (TP) 

Your household is eligible to participate in this study. You said that you have an elementary school aged 

child who attended the summer program/one of the summer programs) that I mentioned [NAME SFSP 

SITE(S) IF NEEDED] that provided breakfast and/or lunch. I would like to ask you a little more about that. 

BOX A 

IF S1=1, TP3

IF S >1, CONTINUE 

TP1. You said that you have (#CHILDREN IN S1) 6 to 18 years old who currently live in the household. 

How many of these children participated in any summer program that provides breakfast and or 

lunch? 

|___|___| 

# CHILDREN 

TP2. How many of those participated in (LIST LOCAL SFSP SITES)? 

|___|___| 

# PARTICIPATED 

BOX B 

IF S3=1, CONTINUE 

IF S3>1, TP4

TP3. Can you please tell me the first name of your child who attended elementary school? 

______________________________________________ (TP5) 

TP4. For this study I need to focus on just one child who participated in one of the summer programs I 

mentioned. Could you tell me the first name of the elementary school child who attended a 

summer program and had a birthday most recently? 

___________________________________________________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-49 

4.3 Telephone Participant (TP) 

Respondents who are administered this questionnaire represent households that have elementary 

school-aged children who participate in SFSP. Following are the question-by-question 

specifications for the TP questionnaire. 

BOX A. Box A determines whether you begin with TP1 or skip to TP3. If more than one child 

was reported living in the household on the Screener question S1, you will begin with TP1. If 

only one child was reported, you will go to TP3. 

TP1-TP4. This series of questions identifies an elementary school-aged child who participated in 

SFSP. 

TP1. This question asks the number of children 6 through 18 that participated in any summer 

program that offered breakfast and or lunch. 

TP2. This question asks for the number of children reported in TP1 that participated in SFSP. 

BOX B. This box directs you to continue if there is only one elementary school-aged child in 

the household (S3 response); or go to TP4 if there is more than one elementary school-aged 

child. 

TP3. This question asks for the name of the one elementary-school aged child. It is important to 

elicit the name of the child because the remaining questions refer to this child. You will go to 

TP5 after completing this question. 

TP4. You will ask this question if more than one child in the household attended elementary 

school (response in S3). This question identifies one of the elementary school-aged children. It 

is important to elicit the name of the child because the remaining questions refer to this child. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-50 

TP5. Is (CHILD NAME) a boy or girl? 

BOY........................................................ 01 

GIRL....................................................... 02 

TP6. Is (he/she) Hispanic or Latino? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

TP7. What is (his/her) race? Is (he/she) American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Black or African 

American, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, or White? [CODE ALL THAT APPLY] 

AMERICAN INDIAN OR ALASKA 

NATIVE .................................................. 01 

ASIAN..................................................... 02 

BLACK OR AFRICAN AMERICAN......... 03 

NATIVE HAWAIIAN OR OTHER PACIFIC 

ISLANDER ............................................. 04 

WHITE.................................................... 05 

TP8. How old was (CHILD NAME) as of June 1, 2004? 

|___|___| 

# CHILDREN 

Now I would like to ask you some questions about the summer program (CHILD NAME) attended. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-51 

TP5. This asks for the child’s gender. 

TP6. This question asks whether the child is of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. 

TP7. This question asks the child’s race. If a respondent reports more than one race, code all 

that apply. If the respondent hesitates, re-read the response categories slowly. If the respondent 

reports a race other than the choices you read, re-read the choices and ask the respondent to 

categorize the response. 

TP8. This question asks for the child’s age. Record the age in the boxes. Back fill with leading 

zero if needed. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-52 

TP9. TP10 TP11. 

Which program (does/did) (CHILD 

NAME) attend? [RECORD ALL 

SFSP PROGRAMS MENTIONED. 

THEN ASK TP10-14 FOR EACH 

PROGRAM]]

Could you tell me the most important reasons 

(CHILD NAME) attended (NAME OF 

PROGRAM)?

How important was the breakfast to 

(CHILD NAME) attending the program? 

Would you say very important, somewhat 

important, not too important, or not at all 

important?

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

#1 REASON: ____________________ 

#2 REASON: ____________________ 

#3 REASON: ____________________ 

VERY IMPORTANT.................................. 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT ...................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT ........................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT ....................... 04 

DIDN’T PROVIDE BREAKFAST .............. 04 

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

#1 REASON: ____________________ 

#2 REASON: ____________________ 

#3 REASON: ____________________ 

VERY IMPORTANT .................................... 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT......................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT .............................. 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT ........................ 04 

DIDN’T PROVIDE BREAKFAST................ 04 

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

______________________ 

#1 REASON: ____________________ 

#2 REASON: ____________________ 

#3 REASON: ____________________ 

VERY IMPORTANT .................................... 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT......................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT .............................. 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT ........................ 04 

DIDN’T PROVIDE BREAKFAST................ 04 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-53 

 TP9-14. This series of questions is set up in a grid format. It is designed to capture all the 

SFSP sites the child attended. You will document the summer programs in the column in TP9. 

Then go back to the first summer program recorded and ask TP10-TP14 for each program. 

TP10. This is an open-ended question. The respondent is asked to provide the three most 

important reasons the child attended the SFSP site. Try to record the response verbatim. It is 

acceptable if the respondent reports less than three reasons. 

TP11. This question asks the respondent to report the degree of importance the free breakfast 

was to sending the child to the SFSP site. Code ‘05’ if the program did not provide breakfast.
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-54 

TP12. TP13. TP14. 

How important was the lunch to (CHILD 

NAME) attending the program? Would 

you say very important, somewhat 

important, not too important, or not at all 

important?

About how many times a week does/did (CHILD 

NAME) attend this (PROGRAM NAME)? Would 

you say less than once a week, 1 to 2 times a 

week, or 3 or more times a week? 

About how many weeks (does/did) the 

program run? Would you say 2 weeks or 

less, 3 to 4 weeks, 5 to 6 weeks, 7 to 8 

weeks, or more than 8 weeks? 

VERY IMPORTANT.................................. 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT ...................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT........................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT....................... 04 

DIDN’T PROVIDE LUNCH ....................... 04 

LESS THAN ONCE A WEEK ................................... 01 

1 TO 2 TIMES A WEEK, OR .................................... 02 

3 OR MORE TIMES A WEEK .................................. 03 

2 WEEKS OR LESS................................. 01 

3-4 WEEKS .............................................. 02 

5-6 WEEKS .............................................. 03 

7-8 WEEKS .............................................. 04 

MORE THAN 8 WEEKS........................... 05 

VERY IMPORTANT.................................. 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT ...................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT........................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT....................... 04 

DIDN’T PROVIDE LUNCH ....................... 04 

LESS THAN ONCE A WEEK ................................... 01 

1 TO 2 TIMES A WEEK, OR .................................... 02 

3 OR MORE TIMES A WEEK .................................. 03 

2 WEEKS OR LESS................................. 01 

3-4 WEEKS .............................................. 02 

5-6 WEEKS .............................................. 03 

7-8 WEEKS .............................................. 04 

MORE THAN 8 WEEKS........................... 05 

VERY IMPORTANT.................................. 01 

SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT ...................... 02 

NOT TOO IMPORTANT........................... 03 

NOT AT ALL IMPORTANT....................... 04 

DIDN’T PROVIDE LUNCH ....................... 04 

LESS THAN ONCE A WEEK ................................... 01 

1 TO 2 TIMES A WEEK, OR .................................... 02 

3 OR MORE TIMES A WEEK .................................. 03 

2 WEEKS OR LESS................................. 01 

3-4 WEEKS .............................................. 02 

5-6 WEEKS .............................................. 03 

7-8 WEEKS .............................................. 04 

MORE THAN 8 WEEKS........................... 05 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-55 

TP12. This question asks the respondent to report the degree of importance the free lunch was to 

sending the child to the SFSP site. Code ‘05’ if the summer program did not provide lunch. 

TP13-14. These questions ask about the length and duration of the program recorded in TP9 

The length responses are grouped into number of times per week, whereas the duration responses 

are grouped in number of weeks. It may be necessary to clarify an answer with the respondent. 

In that case, repeat the response categories by saying something like: ‘So would you say that was 

less than once a week, 1 to 2 times a week, or 3 or more times a week?’ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-56 

TP15. When (CHILD NAME) is in the summer program, how much do you depend on the program to 

provide (his/her) breakfast? Would you say: very much, somewhat, not so much, or not at all? 

VERY MUCH.......................................... 01 

SOMEWHAT .......................................... 02 

NOT SO MUCH...................................... 03 

NOT AT ALL........................................... 04 

PROGRAM DOESN’T PROVIDE 

BREAKFAST .......................................... 05 

TP16. When (CHILD NAME) is in the summer program how much do you depend on the program to 

provide (his/her) lunch? Would you say: very much, somewhat, not so much, or not at all? 

VERY MUCH ......................................... 01 

SOMEWHAT .......................................... 02 

NOT SO MUCH...................................... 03 

NOT AT ALL........................................... 04 

PROGRAM DOESN’T PROVIDE 

LUNCH................................................... 05 

TP17. Now I’m going to read you several statements that people have made about their food situation. 

Please tell me whether the statement was often true, sometimes true, or never true for your 

household in the last 30 days. 

 The first statement is [READ 1ST STATEMENT]. Was that often true, sometimes true, or never 

true for your household in the last 30 days? 

 CODE RESPONSE AND GO TO NEXT STATEMENT. FOLLOW WITH: 

 Was that often, sometimes, or never true for your household in the last 30 days? 

 

 REPEAT UNTIL ALL STATEMENTS CODED. 

 SOME 

 OFTEN TIMES NEVER DK REF

a. I worried whether our food would run out before I got 

 money to buy more........................................................ 01 02 03 98 99 

b. The food that I bought just didn’t last, and I didn’t have 

 money to get more......................................................... 01 02 03 98 99 

c. We couldn’t afford to eat balanced meals...................... 01 02 03 98 99 

d. I relied on only a few kinds of low-cost food to feed my 

 (child/children) because I was running out of money to 

 buy food......................................................................... 01 02 03 98 99 

e. I couldn’t feed my (child/children) a balanced meal 

 because I couldn’t afford that......................................... 01 02 03 98 99 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-57 

TP15. This question asks the respondent to consider the degree to which he/she depends on the 

SFSP program to provide breakfast. You will read the response items and then code the 

respondent’s answer. If the program does not provide breakfast you will code ‘05’, Program 

does not provide breakfast. 

TP16. This question asks the respondent to consider the degree to which he/she depends on the 

SFSP program to provide lunch. You will read the response items and then code the 

respondent’s answer. If the program does not provide lunch you will code ’05’, Program does 

not provide lunch.

TP17. This question attempts to elicit information about whether the school breakfast and 

lunch program that the child participates in during the school year makes a difference in the 

household food situation. It asks the respondent to compare the household food situation when 

the child was in school and receiving school breakfast/lunch with the situation in the last 30 days 

when the child was out of school. Make sure that the respondent understands that he/she is 

comparing the food situation during the school year with the food situation when the child is not 

in school during the summer. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-58 

TP18. Now think about when (CHILD NAME) was in school during the regular school year that ended in 

May or June of this year. Did the school breakfast and lunch program during the regular school 

year make a difference in your household food situation compared to the last 30 days? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

 

TP19. Does your child eat more balanced meals and healthy foods during the regular school year or 

during the summer? 

REGULAR SCHOOL YEAR ................... 01 

SUMMER ............................................... 02 

EATS ABOUT THE SAME...................... 03 

BOX C 

IF TP18 OR TP19 = 01, CONTINUE; 

OTHERWISE, TP21

TP20. You said that your food situation was different when your child was in school compared to the 

summer. What was the reason for the differences during the school year? [CODE ALL THAT 

APPLY] 

MORE QUANTITY OF FOOD TO EAT......................................... 01 

MORE DIFFERENT TYPES OF FOOD TO EAT .......................... 02 

MORE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES TO EAT .............................. 03 

MORE MEAT TO EAT ................................................................. 04 

MORE MILK PRODUCTS TO EAT............................................... 05 

MORE REGULAR MEAL TIMES .................................................. 06 

LESS FAST FOOD ....................................................................... 07 

OTHER (SPECIFY)....................................................................... 08 

________________________________________ 

DK .............................................................................................. 98 

REFUSED..................................................................................... 99 

TP21. Who in your household is responsible for preparing breakfast and lunch for (CHILD NAME) during 

the summer when (he/she) eats at home? [CODE ALL THAT APPLY; IF SELF, CODE MOTHER 

OR FATHER] 

CHILD’S MOTHER/GUARDIAN ............. 01 

CHILD’S FATHER/GUARDIAN .............. 02 

CHILD’S SIBLING .................................. 03 

CHILD’S GRANDPARENT ..................... 04 

OTHER RELATIVE (SPECIFY) .............. 05 

_______________________________ 

SOMEONE ELSE (SPECIFY) ................ 06 

_______________________________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-59 

TP18. This question attempts to elicit information about whether the school breakfast and 

lunch program that the child participates in during the school year makes a difference in the 

household food situation. It asks the respondent to compare the household food situation when 

the child was in school and receiving school breakfast/lunch with the situation in the last 30 days 

when the child was out of school. Make sure that the respondent understands that he/she is 

comparing the food situation during the school year with the food situation when the child is not 

in school during the summer. 

TP19. This question asks the respondent to compare the healthiness of the child’s meals during 

the school year to during the summer. Do not define ‘balanced meals’ and ‘healthy food’. It is 

whatever it means to the respondent. 

BOX C. Box C directs you to continue if the respondent answered ‘yes’ to TP18 or ‘regular 

school year’ to TP19. Otherwise, go to TP21. 

TP20. This question is a follow-up to the responses in TP18 and TP19 that suggest that the food 

situation in the household is better when the child is receiving school breakfast and/or lunch 

during the school year. This question asks how the situation is better. There are 7 response 

codes in addition to ‘Other, Specify’. Try to code the response in one of the existing codes. 

However, if you cannot code a respondent’s answer with the existing response codes, you can 

record the response here. 

TP21. This question asks who is responsible for feeding the child at home during the summer. 

Response codes 05 and 06 are Other (Specify) categories that you can use if the respondent’s 

answer cannot be coded in one of the existing response items. Code all responses the respondent 

reports. If the respondent reports ‘self’, code ‘01’ or ‘02’. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-60 

TP22. During the summer, when (CHILD NAME) is not in a summer program that serves breakfast, 

where does (he/she) usually eat breakfast? 

HOME..................................................... 01 

DAY CARE (NOT SUMMER 

PROGRAM)............................................ 02 

SOMEWHERE ELSE (SPECIFY)........... 03 

_______________________________ 

DOESN’T EAT BREAKFAST.................. 04 (TP25) 

TP23. How would you describe the amount of food (CHILD NAME) eats at a typical breakfast during 

the summer when not in a summer program? Would you say (he/she) gets more than enough to 

eat, enough to eat, or not enough to eat? 

MORE THAN ENOUGH TO EAT............ 01 

ENOUGH TO EAT.................................. 02 

NOT ENOUGH TO EAT ......................... 03 

TP24. How would you describe the kind of food (CHILD NAME) eats at a typical breakfast during the 

summer when not in a summer program? Would you say it is very healthy and balanced, 

somewhat healthy and balanced, or not at all healthy and balanced? 

VERY HEALTH AND BALANCED.......... 01 

SOMEWHAT HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 02 

NOT AT ALL HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 03 

TP25. During the summer, when (CHILD NAME) is not in a summer program that provides lunch, 

where does (he/she) usually eat lunch? 

HOME..................................................... 01 

DAY CARE (NOT SUMMER 

PROGRAM)............................................ 02 

SOMEWHERE ELSE (SPECIFY)........... 03 

_______________________________ 

DOESN’T EAT LUNCH........................... 04 (TP28) 

TP26. How would you describe the amount of food (CHILD NAME) ate at a typical lunch during the 

summer when not in a summer program or summer school? Would you say (he/she) got more 

than enough to eat, enough to eat, or not enough to eat? 

MORE THAN ENOUGH TO EAT............ 01 

ENOUGH TO EAT.................................. 02 

NOT ENOUGH TO EAT ......................... 03 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-61 

TP22. This question asks where the child usually eats breakfast during the summer. Response 

code 03 is an Other (Specify) category that you can use if the respondent’s answer cannot be 

coded in one of the existing response items. If the respondent reports that the child does not eat 

breakfast, code ‘04’ and go to TP25. 

TP23-TP24. These questions ask about the amount and kind of food the child eats at a typical 

breakfast during the summer. For TP24, do not define ‘healthy’ and ‘balanced’. The definition 

is whatever it means to the respondent. 

TP25. This question asks where the child usually eats lunch during the summer. Response code 

03 is an Other (Specify) category that you can use if the respondent’s answer cannot be coded in 

one of the existing response items. If the respondent reports that the child does not eat lunch, 

code ‘04’ and go to TP28. 

TP26-TP27. These questions ask about the amount and kind of food the child eats at a typical 

lunch during the summer. For TP27, do not define ‘healthy’ and ‘balanced’. The definition is 

whatever it means to the respondent.. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-62 

TP27. How would you describe the kind of food (CHILD NAME) eats at a typical lunch during the 

summer when not in a summer program? Would you say it is very healthy and balanced, 

somewhat healthy and balanced, or not at all healthy and balanced? 

VERY HEALTH AND BALANCED.......... 01 

SOMEWHAT HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 02 

NOT AT ALL HEALTHY AND 

BALANCED ............................................ 03 

TP28. Who in your household is responsible for watching (CHILD NAME) (and the other children) during 

the day in the summer? [CODE ALL THAT APPLY; IF SELF, CODE MOTHER OR FATHER] 

CHILD’S MOTHER/GUARDIAN ............. 01 

CHILD’S FATHER/GUARDIAN .............. 02 

CHILD’S SIBLING .................................. 03 

CHILD’S GRANDPARENT ..................... 04 

OTHER RELATIVE (SPECIFY) .............. 05 

_______________________________ 

SOMEONE ELSE (SPECIFY) ................ 06 

_______________________________ 

TP29. Were there periods of time during the day in the summer when you needed to cover child care 

but there was no one to watch (CHILD NAME)? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (INTRO TO TP37) 

TP30. How much of a problem was this for your household? Would you say it was a very large problem, 

somewhat of a problem, not much of a problem, or not at all a problem? 

VERY LARGE PROBLEM ...................... 01 

SOMEWHAT OF A PROBLEM............... 02 

NOT MUCH OF A PROBLEM ................ 03 

NOT AT ALL A PROBLEM .................... 04 

Finally, I would like to ask you a few questions about yourself and other members of your family. 

TP31. First, how old are you? 

|___|___| 

AGE 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-63 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-64 

TP28. This question asks who is responsible for watching the child during the day in the 

summer. Response codes 05 and 06 are Other (Specify) categories that you can use if the 

respondent’s answer cannot be coded in one of the existing response items. Code all responses 

the respondent reports. If the respondent reports ‘self’, code ‘01’ or ‘02’. 

TP29. This question is trying to determine whether child care was a problem during the 

summer. If the respondent answer ‘Yes’ continue. Otherwise, go to the introduction before 

TP37. 

TP30. This question asks the respondent to assess the degree of the problem identified in TP29. 

TP31-TP37. These final questions collect information about the respondent and other members 

of the family. 

TP31. This question asks the respondent’s age. Record the age in the boxes 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-65 

TP32. CODE SEX 

___________________________________________________ 

TP33. What is the highest grade or year of regular school you ever completed? 

NONE, OR GRADES 1-8 .......................................................... 01 

HS INCOMPLETE - GRADES 9-11........................................... 02 

HS GRADUATE - 12 GRADE OR GED..................................... 03 

BUSINESS, TECHNICAL OR 

VOCATIONAL SCHOOL AFTER HS......................................... 04 

SOME COLLEGE OR 2YR DEGREE........................................ 05 

COLLEGE GRADUATE............................................................. 06 

GRADUATE OR PROIFESSIONAL 

SCHOOL OR OTHER ............................................................... 07 

DK............................................................................................. 08 

REFUSED................................................................................. 09 

TP34. Are you employed outside the home during the day? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

TP35. Are you now married, living with someone as married, widowed, divorced, separated, or have you 

never been married? 

MARRIED............................................... 01 

LIVING AS MARRIED ............................ 02 

WIDOWED ............................................. 03 (TP37) 

DIVORCED ............................................ 04 (TP37) 

SEPARATED.......................................... 05 (TP37) 

NEVER MARRIED.................................. 06 (TP37) 

TP36. Is your (husband/wife/partner) employed outside the home during the day? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

TP37. Are there (any/any other) adults 19 years old or older in the household who are home during the 

day? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

END 

Thank you for your time. Someone may contact you again to follow-up on some of the information you 

provided us. If you agree to a second interview you will be paid $20. 

Before I go, may I verify that our records have your correct address and telephone numbers? [READ 

ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBERS]. 

When is the best time to reach you during the day and evening? 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 4-66 

TP32. This question asks the respondent’s gender.

TP33. This question asks the highest grade or number of years the respondent completed in 

regular school. Regular school refers to elementary school through college. It includes business, 

technical or vocational school. 

TP34. This question asks whether the respondent has a job outside the home. 

TP35. This question asks the respondent’s present marital status. If the respondent was married, 

divorced, and then remarried; his/her present status is ‘married’. If the respondent is ‘married’ 

or ‘living as married’, continue. Otherwise, go to TP37. 

TP36. This question asks whether the respondent’s partner is employed outside the home. 

TP37. Other than the respondent and his/her partner, this question asks whether there are other 

adult members of the household that are at home during the day. 

END. Read this paragraph verbatim. This statement thanks the respondent and reminds them 

that someone may contact them again for an in-person interview. It also introduces the 

$20 payment that will be provided if the respondent completes a second interview. 

Finally, you will confirm the contact information and ask for a good time to contact them 

again. If the respondent provides different contact information, record it on the 

information sheet.
 

Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-1 

Chapter 5 – Interview Procedures for the In-Person Interviews 

5.1 In-Person, Non-Participant Interview 

The In-Person, Non-Participant interview includes a set of open-ended questions, a series of 

questions on food security, and several questions about other children in the household. The 

open-ended questions are designed to capture the respondents’ thoughts, feelings, and 

perceptions. You will ask a question that does not have a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer, and wait for the 

respondent to reply. Be very patient. If the respondent cannot answer the question, try to reword 

it to illicit a response. If the respondent provides a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer, follow up with one of 

the questions in parentheses or ask the question “Why do you say that?” 
 

Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-2 

IN 

IN-PERSON INTERVIEW 

NONPARTICIPANT (IN) 

INTERVIEWER NAME:___________________________________ 

INTERVIEWER ID:______________________________________ 

DATE OF INTERVIEW: |___|___| |___|___| |___|___||___|___| 

LOCATION OF INTERVIEW:_____________________________ 

CHILD NAME:____________________________________________ 

# CHILDREN IN FAMILY: |___|___| 

OTHER ADULTS IN HH: YES NO 

START TIME: |___|___| |___|___|AM PM 

STOP TIME: |___|___| |___|___|AM PM 

PUT LABEL ID HERE 

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY 

DATE RECEIVED:__________ 

BATCH #:_________________ 

ID VERIFIED:______________ 

 NOTIFICATION TO RESPONDENT OF ESTIMATED BURDEN OMB #XXXX EXP. DATE: XX/XX/XXXX 

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 30 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing 

instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. An 

agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control 

number. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, 

to: NIH, Project Clearance Office, 6705 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7974, Bethesda, MD 20892-7479, ATTN: PRA (0925-0465). Do not return the completed 

form to this address. 
 

Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-3 

5.1.1 First Page 

The first page of the In-Person, Non-Participant questionnaire includes a box for the label ID and 

other information that you will need to fill in before or at the beginning of the interview. 

Before you begin the interview, fill in the following information: 

Label box. Remove one of the labels from your package of labels and affix it over the box. 

Interviewer name. Record your name on the line, last name first, and first initial. For example, 

Curtin, S. 

Interviewer ID. Record the interviewer ID that you were assigned in training. 

Date of interview. Record the day, month, and year. Back fill the day and month with leading 

zeros if needed. Record the year as four digits. For example, |0|3| |0|9| |2|0|0|4|.

Child name. The child’s name should be filled in. 

# Children in family. Number of children in family should be filled in. 
 

Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-4 

IN 

IN-PERSON INTERVIEW 

NONPARTICIPANT (IN) 

INTERVIEWER NAME:___________________________________ 

INTERVIEWER ID:______________________________________ 

DATE OF INTERVIEW: |___|___| |___|___| |___|___||___|___| 

LOCATION OF INTERVIEW:_____________________________ 

CHILD NAME:____________________________________________ 

# CHILDREN IN FAMILY: |___|___| 

OTHER ADULTS IN HH: YES NO 

START TIME: |___|___| |___|___|AM PM 

STOP TIME: |___|___| |___|___|AM PM 

PUT LABEL ID HERE 

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY 

DATE RECEIVED:__________ 

BATCH #:_________________ 

ID VERIFIED:______________ 

 NOTIFICATION TO RESPONDENT OF ESTIMATED BURDEN OMB #XXXX EXP. DATE: XX/XX/XXXX 

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 30 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing 

instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. An 

agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control 

number. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, 

to: NIH, Project Clearance Office, 6705 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7974, Bethesda, MD 20892-7479, ATTN: PRA (0925-0465). Do not return the completed 

form to this address. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-5 

Other adults in household. This should be filled in. 

Start Time. Record the time you start the interview in hours and minutes. Back fill with 

leading zeros if needed. For example, |0|4| |0|5| AM PM 

Stop Time. Record the time you complete the interview in hours and minutes, following the 

same procedures as for the Start Time. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-6 

INTRODUCTION: 

[USE OWN SCRIPT THAT INCLUDES THESE POINTS] 

• Conducted by: the U.S. Department of Agriculture 

• Purpose of study: To learn more about what your children eat during the summer and whether 

summer programs that offer breakfast and or lunch are useful to you during that time. 

• Purpose of this interview: Follow-up to telephone interview to get more detailed information about 

child’s food needs during the summer and their participation or non-participation in the SFSP when 

regular school was out. 

• Organization of interview: Ask general questions to get more details. Encourage respondent to 

elaborate on answers. 

• Participation voluntary. There are no consequences if you decide not to participate, in either the 

whole study or any particular question. 

• Confidential. All answers are kept confidential and the results of the study will be reported as 

grouped data so that your identity is not revealed. 

• Remuneration: You will be paid $20 today for your time to complete this interview. 

First I would like to get your opinion on the issues you deal with in the summer when trying to feed 

(CHILD NAME) healthy meals. 

IN1. Did you do anything special this past summer when (CHILD NAME) was not in regular school to 

make sure (he/she) ate enough food and the right kinds of foods at breakfast and lunch? 

• How did you try to make sure that (he/she) ate enough food and the right kinds of foods? 

• Looking back on it, are there other things you think you could have done to make sure that 

(CHILD NAME) got enough food and the right kinds of foods? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-7 

Introduction. During training you will draft an introduction in your own words that that 

contains the points listed on the questionnaire. The introduction should sound natural and be 

comfortable for you to explain without looking at notes. 

IN1-IN7. The first series of questions ask the respondents’ opinions on how they deal with 

feeding their child healthy meals in the summer. Listen carefully to what the respondent says. 

Respondents may not have thought about these questions, so it may take time for them to 

formulate a response. Wait patiently for their answer. Record concisely but with verbatim 

phrases. If appropriate, ask the follow-up questions in italics. If the respondent does not 

elaborate, use a line of questioning such as “why do you say yes/no?”; “why do you say that?”; 

“Can you tell me more about that?” Do not force respondents to respond, but use their answers 

to ask another question to get at the information. 

IN1. This open-ended question asks the respondents to talk about ways they fed their children 

enough and the right kinds of foods that were ‘special’ or ‘different’ from when they were in 

school and receiving school breakfast and/or lunch. Reinforce the term ‘special’ and ‘different’ 

if needed. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-8 

IN2. Now thinking about breakfast, was it a problem to make sure (CHILD NAME) was fed 

breakfast during the summer? 

• Can you tell me more about that? 

• Looking back on it, do you think that you will do something differently next summer? 

• IF NO PROBLEM: Why wasn’t it a problem? Can you tell me more about that? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

IN3. Now thinking about lunch, was it a problem to make sure (CHILD NAME) was fed lunch during 

the summer? 

• Can you tell me more about that? 

• Looking back on it, do you think that you will do something differently next summer? 

• IF NO: Please explain. Why wasn’t it a problem? Can you tell me more about that? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-9 

IN2. This open-ended question asks the respondents to describe any problems they might have 

had to make sure that their child was fed breakfast. A problem refers to anything that changed 

the routine or pattern of the day that affected other daily activities, such as work or meal time. A 

problem could refer to a situation that was stressful to the respondent or the child, or some other 

member of the family. A problem could refer to a financial situation that created a burden on the 

family. 

IN3. This question is the same as IN2 except it refers to lunch. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-10 

IN4. If you could improve (CHILD NAME’s) eating arrangements or the kind of foods (he/she) 

eats for breakfast and lunch during the summer months, what would you do? 

• Why do you say that? 

• What else? 

• IF NOTHING: Do you feel that there is no difference in the eating arrangements and kinds of 

foods that (CHILD NAME) eats in the summer program compared to when not in the 

program? Why do you say that? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

IN5. What would have to happen in order for you to send (CHILD NAME) to a summer program that 

offers free breakfast and/or lunch? 

• For example, would it have to be more convenient, would there have to be bus pick-up, would 

the neighborhood have to be safer, etc.) 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-11 

IN4. This question is asking for examples of different choices the respondent might have made 

in the feeding arrangements for their child during the summer months. If the respondent answers 

‘nothing’, ask the follow-up question in parentheses. This may elicit some examples of changes. 

Be patient, they may not have thought about this question. If the respondent indicates that there 

is no difference, ask “Why do you say that?” 

IN5. This question asks the respondent to think about their household and what would have to 

happen in order to send their child to a summer program? If needed, read the examples in italics. 

Try to elicit specific requirements from the respondents. If they give vague answers, ask them to 

provide more detail (i.e., “Can you tell me a little more about that?”) 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-12 

IN6. When we talked with you on the phone, we asked you where (CHILD NAME) usually ate 

breakfast and lunch during the summer. Can you tell me how satisfied you were with those 

feeding arrangements? 

• Were they dependable? 

• Did the child like them? 

• Was the food enough and of the right kind? 

• Were the arrangements different for breakfast and lunch? 

• Did you have to make different arrangements for other children in the household? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

IN7. Do you feel that (CHILD NAME) gets enough food and the right kinds of foods for breakfast and 

lunch during the summer months? 

• IF YES: Why do you feel that way? 

• IF NO: Please explain. 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-13 

IN6. This question asks the respondent to think about the eating arrangements for their child in 

the summer and how pleased they were. If the respondent hesitates, ask the specific questions in 

italics. 

IN7. This question was asked in the telephone interview, but this is an opportunity for the 

respondent to tell you why they answered “yes” or “no”. Remember that they should be 

comparing what the child eats in the summer with what he/she eats during the school year when 

she gets school breakfast and/or lunch.
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-14 

The next questions are about the food eaten in your household in the last 30 days. 

IN8. First, I’m going to read a statement and I want you to tell me whether the statement was often 

true, sometimes true, or never true for your household in the last 30 days. 

 My (child was/children were) not eating enough because I just couldn’t afford enough food. Was 

that often, sometimes, or never true for your household in the last 30 days? 

OFTEN TRUE ........................................ 01 

SOMETIMES TRUE ............................... 02 

NEVER TRUE ........................................ 03 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 

IN9. In the last 30 days, did (you/you or other adults in your household) ever cut the size of your meals 

or skip meals because there wasn’t enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (IN11) 

DK .......................................................... 98 (IN11) 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 (IN11) 

IN10. In the last 30 days, how often did this happen? 

|___|___| 

DAYS 

IN11. In the last 30 days, did you ever eat less than you felt you should because there wasn’t enough 

money to buy food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 

IN12. In the last 30 days, were you ever hungry but didn’t eat because you couldn’t afford enough food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-15 

IN8-IN20. This series of questions asks about the household food security in the last 30 days. 

Some of the questions are similar in content, but are asking the same question in a slightly 

different way. These questions may be sensitive or uncomfortable to some respondents. Read 

them verbatim and repeat if necessary. Do not try to interpret the question. 

IN8. This question asks the respondent whether, in the last 30 days, they felt their child did not 

get enough to eat because they couldn’t afford it. 

IN9. This question asks whether any adult in the household cut their portions or skipped meals 

in the last 30 days because there was not enough food. If the respondent answers “No” or “Don’t 

Know”, or refuses, go to IN11. 

IN10. This question is a follow-up to IN9. It asks the respondent to report the number of days in 

the last 30 days that an adult ate less or skipped meals because there was not enough food. Enter 

the number in the box. Backfill with leading zero if necessary. 

IN11. This question asks whether the respondent ate less than they felt they should in the last 30 

days because there was not enough money to buy food. 

IN12. This question asks the respondent if, in the last 30 days, they were ever hungry, but didn’t 

eat because there was not enough money for food 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-16 

IN13. In the last 30 days, did you lose weight because you didn’t have enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 

BOX A 

IF IN8= 01 OR 02; OR IN9, IN10, IN11, OR IN12=01, 

CONTINUE; 

 OTHERWISE, GO TO INTRO BEFORE IN21. 

IN14. In the last 30 days, did (you/you or other adults in your household) ever NOT eat for a whole day 

because there wasn’t enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (IN16) 

DK .......................................................... 98 (IN16) 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 (IN16) 

IN15. In the last 30 days, how often did this happen? 

|___|___| 

DAYS 

IN16. The next questions are about children living in the household who are under 19 years old. In the 

last 30 days, did you ever cut the size of (your child’s/any of the children’s) meals because there 

wasn’t enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 

IN17. In the last 30 days did (CHILD NAME/any of the children) ever skip meals because there wasn’t 

enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (IN19) 

DK .......................................................... 98 (IN19) 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 (IN19) 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-17 

IN13. This question asks whether the respondent lost weight in the last 30 days because there 

was not enough money for food. 

BOX A. This box directs you to continue if the respondent indicated that they did not eat as 

much as they should have or wanted to, or reported they had lost weight in questions IN8-13. 

The next questions are asking about another level of food insecurity. If the respondent indicated 

in those questions that food security was not an issue, you will go to the introduction before 

IN21. 

IN14. This question asks the respondent whether, in the last 30 days, any adults or children in 

the household did not eat for a whole day because there was not enough food. If they respond 

“Yes” you will continue, otherwise go to IN16. 

IN15. This question asks the respondent to report the number of days in the last 30 days when 

anyone in the household did not eat for a whole day because there was not enough food. Record 

the number in the boxes. Backfill with leading zero if necessary. 

IN16-IN20. Questions IN16 through IN20 ask about the food security situation of children 

under 19 years old. If there is more than one child under 19 years old in the household (see 

information on the questionnaire cover), use the term “your children” or “any of your children” 

in the question. 

IN16. This question asks the respondent whether, in the last 30 days, they ever cut the size of 

their child’s/children’s food because there was not enough money for food. 

IN17. This question asks the respondent whether, in the last 30 days, their child/children ever 

skipped meals because there was not enough money for food. If the respondent answers “No”, 

“Don’t know’, or refuses, go to IN19. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-18 

IN18. In the last 30 days, how often did this happen? 

|___|___| 

DAYS 

IN19. In the last 30 days (was your child/were the children) ever hungry but you just couldn’t afford 

more food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 

IN20. In the last 30 days, did (your child/any of the children) ever not eat for a whole day because there 

wasn’t enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-19 

IN18. This question asks the respondent to report the number of days in the last 30 days when 

their child/children skipped meals because there was not enough food. Record the number in the 

boxes. Backfill with leading zero if necessary. 

IN19. This question asks the respondent whether there were days in the last 30 days when their 

child/children was hungry because they could not afford food. 

IN20. This question asks the respondent whether there were days in the last 30 days when their 

child/children did not eat for a whole day because they could not afford food. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-20 

 Finally, I would like to get some information about the other children in your household. 

IN21. Did any other children in your household 6 through 18 years old participate in a summer program 

that offered breakfast and or lunch? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (END) 

DK .......................................................... 98 (END) 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 (END) 

 I would like to get some information about (him/her/them). 

IN22. 

How many children participate? 

[CHECK 1 BOX FOR EACH 

CHILD] 

IN23. 

How old is 

(CHILD #) who 

participates? 

IN24. 

Is this a boy or 

girl? 

IN25. 

What is the name or 

location of the program? 

Child #1 

Child #2 

Child #3 

Child #4 

END 

This completes the interview. Thank you for your time. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-21 

IN21. This question is asking whether other children in the household participated in a summer 

program that offered breakfast and/or lunch. If the respondent answers “yes” you will record 

information in the grid below. If the respondent answers “No”, you will go to the END. 

IN22-IN25. This is a grid where you will enter information about each child. Check a cell in 

column IN22 for each child that participated in a summer program that offered breakfast and/or 

lunch and then ask IN23-IN25 for each child checked. 

IN22. Read the question in the column heading and check a cell for each child reported, then go 

to IN23. 

IN23. Read the question in the column heading and record the answer in the appropriate cell. If 

more than one child participated in a summer program that offers breakfast and/or lunch, ask the 

respondent to give you the age of the youngest child that participated first. Record the age in the 

first cell of IN23 and then go to IN24 and IN25. Then ask for the age of the next youngest child 

that participated. Continue in this way until you have recorded the ages of all children that 

participated in a summer program. 

IN24. Read the question in the column heading and record the answer in the appropriate cell. 

Record the gender of the first child and go to IN25. Continue in this way until you have 

recorded the gender for all children checked in the first column. 

IN25. Read the question in the column heading and record the answer in the appropriate cell. 

This question should be asked in turn about every child. If the respondent does not know the 

name or location, try to get some identifying information (e.g., art program). 

END. Thank them for their time and give them the $20 remuneration. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-22 

IP 

IN-PERSON INTERVIEW 

PARTICIPANT (IP) 

INTERVIEWER NAME:___________________________________ 

INTERVIEWER ID:______________________________________ 

DATE OF INTERVIEW: |___|___| |___|___| |___|___||___|___| 

LOCATION OF INTERVIEW:_____________________________ 

CHILD NAME:____________________________________________ 

SFSP SITE ATTENDED:____________________________________ 

# CHILDREN IN FAMILY: |___|___| 

OTHER ADULTS IN HH: YES NO 

START TIME: |___|___| |___|___|AM PM 

STOP TIME: |___|___| |___|___|AM PM 

PUT LABEL ID HERE 

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY 

DATE RECEIVED:__________ 

BATCH #:_________________ 

ID VERIFIED:______________ 

 NOTIFICATION TO RESPONDENT OF ESTIMATED BURDEN OMB #XXXX EXP. DATE: XX/XX/XXXX 

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 30 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing 

instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. An 

agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control 

number. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, 

to: NIH, Project Clearance Office, 6705 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7974, Bethesda, MD 20892-7479, ATTN: PRA (0925-0465). Do not return the completed 

form to this address. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-23 

5.2 In-Person, Participant Interview 

The In-Person, Participant interview includes a set of open-ended questions, a series of questions 

on food security, and several questions about other children in the household. The open-ended 

questions are designed to capture the respondents’ thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. You will 

ask a question that does not have a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer, and wait for the respondent to reply. Be 

very patient. If the respondent cannot answer the question, try to reword it to illicit a response. 

If the respondent provides a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer, follow up with one of the questions in 

parentheses or ask the question “Why do you say that?” 

5.2.1 First Page 

The first page of the In-Person, Non-Participant questionnaire includes a box for the label ID and 

other information that you will need to fill in before or at the beginning of the interview. 

Before you begin the interview, fill in the following information: 

Label box. Remove one of the labels from your package of labels and affix it over the box. 

Interviewer name. Record your name on the line, last name first, and first initial. For example, 

Curtin, S. 

Interviewer ID. Record the interviewer ID that you were assigned in training. 

Date of interview. Record the day, month, and year. Back fill the day and month with leading 

zeros if needed. Record the year as four digits. For example, |0|3| |0|9| |2|0|0|4|.

Child name. The child’s name should be filled in. 

# Children in family. Number of children in family should be filled in.
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-24 

IP 

IN-PERSON INTERVIEW 

PARTICIPANT (IP) 

INTERVIEWER NAME:___________________________________ 

INTERVIEWER ID:______________________________________ 

DATE OF INTERVIEW: |___|___| |___|___| |___|___||___|___| 

LOCATION OF INTERVIEW:_____________________________ 

CHILD NAME:____________________________________________ 

SFSP SITE ATTENDED:____________________________________ 

# CHILDREN IN FAMILY: |___|___| 

OTHER ADULTS IN HH: yes no 

START TIME: |___|___| |___|___|AM PM 

STOP TIME: |___|___| |___|___|AM PM 

PUT LABEL ID HERE 

 NOTIFICATION TO RESPONDENT OF ESTIMATED BURDEN OMB #XXXX EXP. DATE: XX/XX/XXXX 

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 30 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing 

instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. An 

agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control 

number. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, 

to: NIH, Project Clearance Office, 6705 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7974, Bethesda, MD 20892-7479, ATTN: PRA (0925-0465). Do not return the completed 

form to this address. 

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY 

DATE RECEIVED:__________ 

BATCH #:_________________ 

ID VERIFIED:______________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-25 

Start Time. Record the time you start the interview in hours and minutes. Back fill with 

leading zeros if needed. For example, |0|4| |0|5| AM PM 

Stop Time. Record the time you complete the interview in hours and minutes, following the 

same procedures as for the Start Time. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-26 

INTRODUCTION: 

[USE OWN SCRIPT THAT INCLUDES THESE POINTS] 

• Conducted by: the U.S. Department of Agriculture 

• Purpose of study: To learn more about what your children eat during the summer and whether 

summer programs that offer breakfast and or lunch are useful to you during that time. 

• Purpose of this interview: Follow-up to telephone interview to get more detailed information about 

child’s food needs during the summer and their participation or non-participation in the SFSP when 

regular school was out. 

• Organization of interview: Ask general questions to get more details. Encourage respondent to 

elaborate on answers. 

• Participation voluntary. There are no consequences if you decide not to participate, in either the 

whole study or any particular question. 

• Confidential. All answers are kept confidential and the results of the study will be reported as 

grouped data so that your identity is not revealed. 

• Remuneration: You will be paid $20 today for your time to complete this interview. 

IP1. First let’s talk about the (SITE NAME) that (CHILD NAME) attended this summer. 

 Did the program offer breakfast? Offer lunch? 

BREAKFAST .......................................... 01 

LUNCH................................................... 02 

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH .................... 03 

IP2. What is it you (like/liked) best about that program? 

• Why did you like that? 

• How important was that to sending your child to that program? 

• If the program(s) was available for a longer period of time during the summer would your 

child/children likely continue to attend? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-27 

Other adults in household. This should be filled in. 

Introduction. During training you will draft an introduction in your own words that that 

contains the points listed in the questionnaire. The introduction should sound natural and be 

comfortable for you to explain without looking at notes. 

IP1-IP8. The first series of questions ask the respondents’ opinions on how they deal with 

feeding their child healthy meals in the summer. Listen carefully to what the respondent says. 

Respondents may not have thought about these questions, so it may take time for them to 

formulate a response. Wait patiently for their answer. Record concisely but with verbatim 

phrases. If appropriate, ask the follow-up questions in italics. If the respondent does not 

elaborate, use a line of questioning such as “why do you say yes/no?”; “why do you say that?”; 

“Can you tell me more about that?” Do not force respondents to respond, but use their answers 

to ask another question to get at the information. 

IP1. This question is determining what meal or meals the SFSP program offered. 

IP2. This question is similar to one asked in the telephone interview. However, it offers the 

respondent to elaborate on their response. Use the questions in italics to follow-up on their 

response.
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-28 

Now I would like you to think about those times during the summer when (CHILD NAME) was not in the 

summer program. 

IP3. Did you do anything special to feed (CHILD NAME) (IP1) when (he/she) was not in the summer 

program that provided (IP1)? 

• How did you try to make sure that he/she ate enough food and the right kinds of foods at 

(IP1)? 

• Looking back on it, are there other things you think you could have done to make sure that 

your child got enough food and the right kinds of foods? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

IP4. Now thinking about breakfast, was it a problem to make sure (CHILD NAME) was fed breakfast 

during the summer when not in a summer program? 

• Can you tell me more about that? 

• Looking back on it, do you think that you will do something differently next summer? 

• IF NO PROBLEM: Why wasn’t it a problem? Can you tell me more about that? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-29 

IP3. This open-ended question asks the respondents to talk about ways they fed their children 

enough and the right kinds of foods that were ‘special’ or ‘different’ from when they were in 

school and receiving school breakfast and/or lunch. Reinforce the term ‘special’ and ‘different’ 

if needed. 

IP4. This open-ended question asks the respondents to describe any problems they might have 

had to make sure that their child was fed breakfast. A problem refers to anything that changed 

the routine or pattern of the day that affected other daily activities, such as work or meal time. A 

problem could refer to a situation that was stressful to the respondent or the child, or some other 

member of the family. A problem could refer to a financial situation that created a burden on the 

family. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-30 

IP5. Now thinking about lunch, was it a problem to make sure (CHILD NAME) was fed lunch during 

the summer? 

• Can you tell me more about that? 

• Looking back on it, do you think that you will do something differently next summer? 

• IF NO: Please explain. Why wasn’t it a problem? Can you tell me more about that? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

IP6. If you could improve (CHILD NAME’s) eating arrangements or the kind of foods (he/she) eats for 

breakfast and lunch during the summer months when (he/she) is not in a summer program, what 

would you do? 

• Why do you say that? 

• What else? 

• IF NOTHING: Do you feel that there is no difference in the eating arrangements and kinds of 

foods that (CHILD NAME) eats in the summer program compared to when not in the 

program? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-31 

IP5. This question is the same as IP4 except it refers to lunch. 

IP6. This question is asking for examples of different choices the respondent might have made 

in the feeding arrangements for their child during the summer months when not in SFSP. If the 

respondent answers ‘nothing’, ask the follow-up question in parentheses. This may elicit some 

examples of changes. Be patient, they may not have thought about this question. If the 

respondent indicates that there is no difference, as “Why do you say that?” 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-32 

IP7. When we talked with you on the phone we asked you where (CHILD NAME) usually ate breakfast 

and lunch when not in a summer program. Can you tell me how satisfied you were with those 

feeding arrangements? 

• Were they dependable? 

• Did the child like them? 

• Was the food enough and of the right kind? 

• Were the arrangements different for breakfast and lunch? 

• Did you have to make different arrangements for other children in the household? 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

IP8. Do you feel that (CHILD NAME) got enough food and the right kinds of foods for breakfast and 

lunch during the summer months when not in the summer program? 

• IF YES: why do you feel that way? 

• IF NO: please explain. 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________ 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-33 

IP7. This question asks the respondent to think about the eating arrangements for their child in 

the summer when he/she was not in an SFSP program, and how pleased they were with those 

arrangements. If the respondent hesitates, ask the specific questions in italics. 

IP8. This question was asked in the telephone interview, but this is an opportunity for the 

respondent to tell you why they answered “yes” or “no”. Remember that they should be 

comparing what the child eats in the summer with what he/she eats during the school year when 

she gets school breakfast and/or lunch. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-34 

The next questions are about the food eaten in your household in the last 30 days. 

IP9. First, I’m going to read a statement and I want you to tell me whether the statement was often 

true, sometimes true, or never true for your household in the last 30 days. 

 My (child was/children were) not eating enough because I just couldn’t afford enough food. Was 

that often, sometimes, or never true for your household in the last 30 days? 

OFTEN TRUE ........................................ 01 

SOMETIMES TRUE ............................... 02 

NEVER TRUE ........................................ 03 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 

IP10. In the last 30 days, did (you/you or other adults in your household) ever cut the size of your meals 

or skip meals because there wasn’t enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (IP12) 

DK .......................................................... 98 (IP12) 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 (IP12) 

IP11. In the last 30 days, how often did this happen? 

|___|___| 

DAYS 

IP12. In the last 30 days, did you ever eat less than you felt you should because there wasn’t enough 

money to buy food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-35 

IN9-IP21. This series of questions asks about the household food security in the last 30 days. 

Some of the questions are similar in content, but are asking the same question in a slightly 

different way. These questions may be sensitive or uncomfortable to some respondents. Read 

them verbatim and repeat if necessary. Do not try to interpret the question. 

IP9. This question asks the respondent whether, in the last 30 days , they felt their child did not 

get enough to eat because they couldn’t afford it. 

IP10. This question asks whether any adult in the household cut their portions or skipped meals 

in the last 30 days because there was not enough food. If the respondent answers “No” or “Don’t 

Know”, or refuses, go to IN11. 

IP11. This question is a follow-up to IP10. It asks the respondent to report the number of days 

in the last 30 days that an adult ate less or skipped meals because there was not enough food. 

Enter the number in the box. Backfill with leading zero if necessary. 

IP12. This question asks whether the respondent ate less than they felt they should in the last 30 

days because there was not enough money to buy food. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-36 

IP13. In the last 30 days, were you ever hungry but didn’t eat because you couldn’t afford enough food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 

IP14. In the last 30 days, did you lose weight because you didn’t have enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 

BOX A 

IF IP9= 01 OR 02; OR IP10, IP12, IP13, OR IP14=01, 

CONTINUE; 

OTHERWISE, GO TO INTRO BEFORE IP22 

IP15. In the last 30 days, did (you/you or other adults in your household) ever NOT eat for a whole day 

because there wasn’t enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (IP17) 

DK .......................................................... 98 (IP17) 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 (IP17) 

IP16. In the last 30 days, how often did this happen? 

|___|___| 

DAYS 

IP17. The next questions are about children living in the household who are under 19 years old. In the 

last 30 days, did you ever cut the size of (your child’s/any of the children’s) meals because there 

wasn’t enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-37 

IP13. This question asks the respondent if, in the last 30 days, they were ever hungry, but didn’t 

eat because there was not enough money for food.

IP14. This question asks whether the respondent lost weight in the last 30 days because there 

was not enough money for food. 

BOX A. This box directs you to continue if the respondent indicated that they did not eat as 

much as they should have or wanted to, or reported they had lost weight in questions IP9-14. 

The next questions are asking about another level of food insecurity. If the respondent indicated 

in those questions that food security was not an issue, you will go to the introduction before 

IP22. 

IP15. This question asks the respondent whether, in the last 30 days, any adults or children in 

the household did not eat for a whole day because there was not enough food. If they respond 

“Yes” you will continue, otherwise go to IP17. 

IP16. This question asks the respondent to report the number of days in the last 30 days when 

anyone in the household did not eat for a whole day because there was not enough food. Record 

the number in the boxes. Backfill with leading zero if necessary. 

IP17-IP21. Questions IP17 through IP21 ask about the food security situation of children under 

19 years old. If there is more than one child under 19 years old in the household (see 

information on the questionnaire cover), use the term “your children” or “any of your children” 

in the question. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-38 

IP18. In the last 30 days did (CHILD NAME/any of the children) ever skip meals because there wasn’t 

enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (IP20) 

DK .......................................................... 98 (IP20) 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 (IP20) 

IP19. In the last 30 days, how often did this happen? 

|___|___| 

DAYS 

IP20. In the last 30 days (was your child/were the children) ever hungry but you just couldn’t afford 

more food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 

IP21. In the last 30 days, did (your child/any of the children) ever not eat for a whole day because there 

wasn’t enough money for food? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 

DK .......................................................... 98 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-39 

IN18. This question asks the respondent whether, in the last 30 days, their child/children ever 

skipped meals because there was not enough money for food. If the respondent answers “No”, 

“Don’t know’, or refuses, go to IN20. 

IP19. This question asks the respondent to report the number of days in the last 30 days when 

their child/children skipped meals because there was not enough food. Record the number in the 

boxes. Backfill with leading zero if necessary. 

IP20. This question asks the respondent whether there were days in the last 30 days when their 

child/children was hungry because they could not afford food. 

IP21. This question asks the respondent whether there were days in the last 30 days when their 

child/children did not eat for a whole day because they could not afford food. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-40 

Finally, I would like to get some information about the other children in your household. 

IP22. Did any other children in your household 6 through 18 years old participate in a summer food 

program? 

YES ........................................................ 01 

NO.......................................................... 02 (END) 

DK .......................................................... 98 (END) 

REFUSED .............................................. 99 (END) 

 I would like to get some information about (him/her/them). 

IP23. 

How many children participated? 

[CHECK 1 BOX FOR EACH 

CHILD] 

IP24. 

How old is 

(CHILD #) who 

participated? 

IP25. 

Is this a boy or 

girl? 

IP26. 

What is the name or 

location of the program? 

Child #1 

Child #2 

Child #3 

Child #4 

END 

This completes the interview. Thank you for your time. 

 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat 5-41 

IP22. This question is asking whether other children in the household participated in a summer 

program that offered breakfast and/or lunch. If the respondent answers “yes” you will record 

information in the grid below. If the respondent answers “No”, you will go to the END. 

IP23-IP26. This is a grid where you will enter information about each child. Check a cell in 

column IN23 for each child that participated in a summer program that offered breakfast and/or 

lunch and then ask IN24-IN26 for each child checked. 

IP23. Read the question in the column heading and check a cell for each child reported, then go 

to IN24. 

IP24. Read the question in the column heading and record the answer in the appropriate cell. If 

more than one child participated in a summer program that offers breakfast and/or lunch, ask the 

respondent to give you the age of the youngest child that participated first. Record the age in the 

first cell of IN24 and then go to IN25 and IN65. Then ask for the age of the next youngest child 

that participated. Continue in this way until you have recorded the ages of all children that 

participated in a summer program. 

IP25. Read the question in the column heading and record the answer in the appropriate cell. 

Record the gender of the first child and go to IN26. Continue in this way until you have 

recorded the gender for all children checked in the first column. 

IP26. Read the question in the column heading and record the answer in the appropriate cell. 

This question should be asked in turn about every child. If the respondent does not know the 

name or location, try to get some identifying information (e.g., art program). 

END. Thank them for their time and give them the $20 remuneration. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat App-1 

Appendices 

A. Key Project Staff & Contact Information 

Felton & Harley Associates, Inc. 

1101 17th Street, NW 

Suite 1200 

Washington, DC 20036 

202-466-1111 

202-466-3363 (fax) 

Project Director Corporate Monitor 

Sheila Harley Dianne L. Felton 

202-530-7734 202-530-7721 

sharley@feltonandharley.com dfelton@feltonandharley.com 

TA & Training Manager 

Stephen Broyles 

202-530-7740 

sbroyles@feltonandharley.com

Westat, Inc. 

1650 Research Boulevard 

Rockville, MD 20850 

301-251-1500 

301-315-5934 (fax) 

Subcontractor Director Senior Researcher 

Juanita Lucas-McLean Susie McNutt 

301-294-2866 801-453-9268 

lucasmj1@westat.com mcnutts1@westat.com 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat App-2 

B. Definitions of Program Terms for the SFSP Program 

Act means the National School Lunch Act, as amended. 

Administrative costs means costs incurred by a sponsor related to planning, 

organizing, and managing a food service under the Program, and excluding interest 

costs and operating costs. 

Adult means, for the purposes of the collection of social security numbers as a 

condition of eligibility for Program meals, any individual 21 years of age or older. 

Areas in which poor economic conditions exist means: (a) The local areas from which an open 

site and restricted open site draw their attendance in which at least 50 percent of the children are 

eligible for free or reduced price school meals under the National School Lunch Program and the 

School Breakfast Program, as determined: 

(1) By information provided from departments of welfare, education, zoning commissions, 

census tracts, and organizations determined by the State agency to be migrant organizations; 

(2) By the number of free and reduced price lunches or breakfasts served to children attending 

public and nonprofit private schools located in the areas of Program sites; or 

(3) From other appropriate sources; or 

(b) A closed enrolled site. 

Camps means residential summer camps and nonresidential day camps which offer a 

regularly scheduled food service as part of an organized program for enrolled children. 

Nonresidential camp sites shall offer a continuous schedule of organized cultural or recreational 

programs for enrolled children between meal services. 

Children means (a) persons 18 years of age and under, and (b) persons over 18 years of age who 

are determined by a State educational agency or a local public educational agency of a State to 

be mentally or physically handicapped and who participate in a public or nonprofit private school 

program established for the mentally or physically handicapped 

Closed enrolled site means a site which is open only to enrolled children, as opposed to the 

community at large, and in which at least 50 percent of the enrolled children at the site are 

eligible for free or reduced price school meals under the National School Lunch Program and the 

School Breakfast Program, as determined by approval of applications in accordance with 

§225.15(f). 

Continuous school calendar means a situation in which all or part of the student body of a 

school is (a) on a vacation for periods of 15 continuous school days or more during the period 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat App-3 

October through April and (b) in attendance at regularly scheduled classes during most of the 

period May through September. 

Food stamp household means any individual or group of individuals which is currently certified 

to receive assistance as a household under the Food Stamp Program. 

Household means “family”, as defined in this section. 

Income standards means the family-size and income standards prescribed annually by the 

Secretary for determining eligibility for reduced price meals under the National School Lunch 

Program and the School Breakfast Program. 

Meals means food which is served to children at a food service site and which meets the 

nutritional requirements set out in this part. 

Needy children means children from families whose incomes are equal to or below the 

Secretary's Guidelines for Determining Eligibility for Reduced Price School Meals. 

New site means a site that did not participate in the Program in the prior year, or, as determined 

by the State agency, a site that has experienced significant staff turnover from the prior year. 

New sponsor means a sponsor that did not participate in the Program in the prior year, or, as 

determined by the State agency, a sponsor that has experienced significant staff turnover from 

the prior year. 

NYSP means the National Youth Sports Program administered by the National Collegiate 

Athletic Association. 

NYSP feeding site means a site at which all of the children receiving Program meals are enrolled 

in the NYSP and which qualifies for Program participation on the basis of documentation that 

the site meets the definition of “areas in which poor economic conditions exist” as provided in 

this section. 

Open site means a site at which meals are made available to all children in the area and which is 

located in an area in which at least 50 percent of the children are from households that would be 

eligible for free or reduced price school meals under the National School Lunch Program and the 

School Breakfast Program, as determined in accordance with paragraph (a) of the definition of 

Areas in which poor economic conditions exist. 

Private nonprofit organization means an organization (other than private nonprofit residential 

camps, school food authorities, or colleges or universities participating in the NYSP) that: 

(a) Administers the Program: 

(1) At no more than 25 sites, with not more than 300 children being served at 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat App-4 

 any approved meal service at any one site; or 

(2) With a waiver granted by the State in accordance with §225.6(b)(5)(ii), 

 not more than 500 children being served at any approved meal service at 

 any one site; 

(b) Operates in areas where a school food authority has not indicated that it will operate the 

Program in the current year; 

(c) Exercises full control and authority over the operation of the Program at all sites under its 

sponsorship; 

(d) Provides ongoing year-round activities for children or families; 

(d) Demonstrates that it possesses adequate management and the fiscal capacity to operate the 

Program; and 

(e) Meets applicable State and local health, safety, and sanitation standards. 

Restricted open site means a site which is initially open to broad community participation, but at 

which the sponsor restricts or limits attendance for reasons of security, safety or control. Site 

eligibility for a restricted open site shall be documented in accordance with paragraph (a) of the 

definition of Areas in which poor economic conditions exist. 

Rural means (a) any area in a county which is not a part of a Metropolitan Statistical Area or (b) 

any “pocket” within a Metropolitan Statistical Area which, at the option of the State agency and 

with FNS Regional Office concurrence, is determined to be geographically isolated from urban 

areas. 

School food authority means the governing body which is responsible for the administration of 

one or more schools and which has the legal authority to operate a lunch program in those 

schools. In addition, for the purpose of determining the applicability of food service management 

company registration and bid procedure requirements, “school food authority” also means any 

college or university that participates in the Program. 

Secretary means the Secretary of Agriculture. 

Self-preparation sponsor means a sponsor which prepares the meals that will be served at its 

site(s) and does not contract with a food service management company for unitized meals, with 

or without milk, or for management services. 

Session means a specified period of time during which enrolled children attend camp. 

Site means a physical location at which a sponsor provides a food service for children and at 

which children consume meals in a supervised setting. 

Sponsor means a public or private nonprofit school food authority, a public or private nonprofit 

residential summer camp, a unit of local, county or State government, a public or private 

nonprofit college or university currently participating in the NYSP, or a private nonprofit 

organization which develops a special summer or other school vacation program providing food 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat App-5 

service similar to that made available to children during the school year under the National 

School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs and approved to participate in the Program. 

Sponsors are referred in the Act as “service institutions”. 

State agency means the State educational agency or an alternate agency that has been designated 

by the Governor or other appropriate executive or legislative authority of the State and which has 

been approved by the Department to administer the Program within the State, or, in States where 

FNS administers the Program, FNS Regional Office. 

TANF means the State funded program under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act that 

the Secretary determines complies with standards established by the Secretary that ensure that 

the standards under the State program are comparable to or more restrictive than those in effect 

on June 1, 1995. The program is commonly referred to as Temporary Assistance for Needy 

Families, although States may refer to it by another name. 

Unit of local, municipal, county or State government means an entity which is so recognized by 

the State constitution or State laws, such as the State administrative procedures act, tax laws, or 

other applicable State laws which delineate authority for 

government responsibility in the State. 

C. Glossary of Acronyms 

AFDC Aid to Families with Dependent Children 

CACFP Child and Adult Care Food Program 

FDPIR Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations 

FNS Food and Nutrition Services 

NSLP National School Lunch Program 

NYSP National Youth Sports Program 

RCCI Residential Child Care Institutions 

SBA Small Business Administration 

SBP School Breakfast Program 

SFSP Summer Food Service Program 

SMP Special Milk Program 

TANF Temporary Assistance to Needy Families 

USDA United States Department of Agriculture 

YMCA Young Men’s Christian Association 

YWCA Young Women’s Christian Association 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat App-6 

D. FNS Letter to Schools 

[SAMPLE] 

To: 

Subject: Summer Food Service Program Research sponsored by USDA 

Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) of the United States Department of Agriculture looks 

forward to the support and assistance that your school and school district are able to provide 

to Felton & Harley Associates, Inc. in the fielding of the current research on the Summer Food 

Service Program (SFSP). Felton & Harley Associates, Inc. is under contract with USDA to 

conduct this research in four locations around the United States with households that have 

elementary-age children who qualify for free or reduced-price meals during the regular school 

year. 

Presently, there are a large number of elementary-age children who qualify, but do not 

participate, in the Summer Food Service Program during the summer month. FNS is 

concerned as to how and, even whether, their food needs are being met during the summer 

period. The Summer Food Service Program is an important tool in helping USDA to meet the 

summer food needs of qualifying children. The results of the research will be of valuable 

assistance to the management of FNS in developing strategies to increase the participation of 

children who currently perceive barriers to their participation in the SFSP. The research is 

also designed to aid in understanding the food needs of eligible children who do not participate 

in the SFSP. 

Information collected confidentially from households in your school district will only be 

presented in an aggregate form so as not identify specific households or individuals. Food and 

Nutrition Services and Felton & Harley Associates, Inc. will meet, if not exceed, all of the 

requirements of the Office of Management & Budget (OMB) to assure the privacy and 

confidentiality of information provided by households participating in this research. 

Again, I wish to extend my appreciation for your cooperation and assistance. Please contact 

me if I can be of assistance or if any questions should arise. I can be reached at the Office of 

Analysis, Nutrition and Evaluation at FNS at 703-605-0811 or by email at 

Fred.Lesnett@FNS.USDA.GOV. 

Sincerely, 

Frederick Lesnett 

Office of Analysis, Nutrition, and Evaluation 

Food Nutrition Services 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat App-7 

U.S. Department of Agriculture 

E. Letter from Principal to the Parents 

[SAMPLE] 

May or June, 2004 

Dear Parent or Guardian: 

This letter is to let you know about a study sponsored by the Food Nutrition Services of the U.S. 

Department of Agriculture to gather information about the breakfast and lunch arrangements you 

make for your school-aged children during the summer months while regular school is not in 

session. 

We are asking for your participation in this important project during the month of July or 

August. The specific date and time will be provided by Ms. Sheila Harley, Project Director, in a 

follow-up letter. The telephone interview will take no more than 20 minutes. In addition, the 

interviewers may ask about your interest and availability for an in-person interview. 

The information you share will help children in our community and elsewhere to participate to a 

larger extent in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Summer Food Service Program. 

If you have questions, please contact Stephen Broyles or Sheila Harley at 1-800-XXX-XXXX. 

Also, you can let me know if you have any questions. 

Thanks for your cooperation! 

Sincerely, 

Susan Brown 

Principal 

Cardova Elementary School 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat App-8 

F. Parent Letter from the Project Team 

[SAMPLE] 

 June 2004 

Dear Parent or Guardian (Insert Name) 

This a follow-up letter to the one you received on May 15, 2004 from Ms. Susan Brown, 

Principal of Cardova Elementary School. For your convenience, I have enclosed a copy of Ms. 

Brown’s letter asking for your cooperation in this U.S. Department of Agriculture Summer Food 

Service Program Study. 

Your participation will help us all ensure that your children and other school-aged children in 

your community have the opportunity to eat daily nutritious meals. 

We will contact you by telephone in July or August. The telephone interview only requires 

about 20 minutes of your time. In addition, we may contact you again for an in-person interview 

at Davis Recreation Center. 

Your participation is entirely voluntary and we will keep confidential all information gathered. 

We look forward to having the opportunity to talk with you. 

If you have any questions at any point, please contact me at 202-530-7734. 

Sincerely, 

Sheila Harley 

SFSP Project Director 

Felton & Harley Associates 

 

Comment [m1]: Recommend 1-800 

number. 
Felton & Harley Associates/Westat App-9 

G. Project Letter to SFSP Site 

[SAMPLE] 

June 30, 2004 

Dear Recreation Center Director: 

 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) administers food 

programs that provide nutritionally balanced meals and snacks for eligible children who are 6 

through 18 years of age. The two largest programs, the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) 

and School Breakfast Program (SBP), make meals and snacks available to qualifying children 

who attend public and not-for-profit private schools. Children living in families earning at or 

below 130 percent of poverty, based on family size, qualify for free meals and those living in 

families earning between 130 percent and 185 percent qualify for reduced-price meals. As you 

know, FNS also sponsors a Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) that offers free meals to 

qualifying children through summer community programs. 

FNS is conducting a study this summer to determine how the food needs of eligible children are 

being met in the summer when regular school is not in session. This project is of extreme 

importance because only 3.3 million of the 15 million children who are eligible to receive free 

meals in the SFSP actually participate in the summer programs. The study will involve 

interviewing parents of both eligible children who participate in the SFSP programs and those 

who do not. We will be conducting a short telephone interview with about 50 parents in your 

area, and then follow-up in-person interviews with about 25 of those parents. 

Specifically, we are asking your support in encouraging parents or guardians of children who 

frequent your facility to participate in this study. In addition, we would like to use some space in 

your facility for one or two days to conduct the in-person interviews. Your assistance will help 

us all ensure that children in your community and other school-aged children across the United 

States have the opportunity to eat daily nutritious meals. 

I will be contacting you shortly to discuss the details of the project. If you have any questions 

about the study, you may contact me at 202-494-4914 or Stephen Broyles at 202-530-7740. 

Sincerely, 

 

Sheila Harley 

SFSP Project Director 

Felton & Harley Associates 
Appendix B 

Description of the Food Security Index 
B-1 

DESCRIPTION OF THE FOOD SECURITY INDEX 

Using the Guide to Measuring Household Food Security,1 a Food Security Index was 

developed for the respondents who participated in the both the telephone and in-person interviews. The 

steps followed in developing the Food Security Index are described below: 

 The first step was to match the TNN, TNF and TP questionnaires with the IN and IP 

questionnaires because the questions were distributed between the telephone interview 

and the in-person interview. (Five questions were in the telephone interview and 13 

questions were in the in-person interview). 

 Next, the questions were matched with the questions listed in the Guide to Measuring 

Household Food Security (Table 1) and each response to the questions was given a 

code of 0 or 1 in accordance with the instructions on how to code survey responses for 

the Food Security Index (Exhibit 3-1 Coding Survey Responses for the Food Security 

Scale, p.28). (All negative responses –never true, no, or screened out at preliminary 

screen or 1st level screen etc. were given a code of 0. All positive responses—often 

true, sometimes true, yes, etc... were given a code of 1. Data were coded as missing if 

a respondent refused to respond to a question or was recorded as having said, “Don’t 

know.”) 

 Following Exhibit 3-3, “Households with Complete Responses: Food Security Index 

Values and Status Levels Corresponding to Number of Affirmative Responses” 

(p.34), the affirmative responses were recoded to represent the 1998 Food Security 

Index Values (if a respondent had only one affirmative response, a value of 1 was 

assigned; for two affirmative responses a value of 1.8 was assigned). With this recoding, the 18 affirmative responses were recoded to represent a scale from 0 to 10. 

 The Household Food Security Status –categorical measure divided the 10-point scale 

into four categories. A score of 0-2.32 represented being food secure. A score over 

2.32 represented Food Insecurity (between 2.32 and 4.56 was identified as being Food 

Insecure Without Hunger; a score between 4.56 and 6.53 was identified as being Food 

Insecure With Hunger that was less severe –“Moderate”; and a score above 6.53 was 

identified as being Food Insecure With Hunger that was more severe –“Severe”). 

 

1

 Bickel, Gary, Mark Nord, Cristofer Price, William Hamilton, and John Cook: Guide to Measuring Household Food Security 2000. U. S. 

Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Alexandria, VA. March 2000 
B-2 

Table 1. Questions in the Guide to Measuring Food Security, 2000 questionnaire and the survey 

instruments 

Question number in the 

Guide to Measuring Food 

Security, 2000 questionnaire TNN TNF TP IN IP 

Q2 TNN22a TNF23a TP17a 

Q3 TNN22b TNF23b Tp17b 

Q4 TNN22c TNF23c Tp17c 

Q5 TNN22d TNF23d Tp17d 

Q6 TNN22e TNF23e Tp17e 

Q7 IN8 IP9 

Q8 IN9 IP10 

Q8a IN10 IP11 

Q9 IN11 IP12 

Q10 IN12 IP13 

Q11 IN13 IP14 

Q12 IN14 IP15 

Q12a IN15 IP16 

Q13 IN16 IP17 

Q14 IN17 IP18 

Q14a IN18 IP19 

Q15 IN19 IP20 

Q16 IN20 IP21 
B-3 

Listed below are the questions used to compile the Food Security Index for this study, taken 

from the TNN and IN questionnaires. 

* DK = Don’t know 

** REF = Refused 

* ** 
B-4 

DK = Don’t know
B-5 

DK = Don’t know
B-6 

DK = Don’t know
Appendix C 

Attachments 
Attachment C-1 

Proposed Sites for Analysis of the USDA SFSP 
1 

Proposed Sites for Analysis of the USDA Summer Food Service P

SFSP Site Region 

Urbanicity 

(Locale 

Code) ** 

City * 

Population County** 

# of 

Sites 

*** 

Free ** and Reduced Lunches (School) 

Household* 

Median 

Income 

Three Large

Populations 

Race 

Oakland, CA West Large City 399,484 Alameda 39 27,583 $40,005 35.7% African

31.3% Caucasi15.2% Asian 

Miami, FL South Urban 

Fringe of 

Large City 

362,470 Miami-Dade 310 224,342 $23,483 66.6% Caucasi

22.3% African5.4% Other 

Kansas City, MO Midwest Large City 441,545 Jackson 89 36,057 $37,198 60.7% Caucasi

31.2% African3.2% Other 

Salisbury, MD Northeast Small 

Town 

25,247 Wicomico 9 5,596 $29,191 75.1% Caucasi

12.3% African3.6% Asian 
2 

Alternate Sites 

SFSP Site Region 

Urbanicity 

(Locale 

Code) ** 

City * 

Population County** 

# of 

Sites 

*** 

Free ** and Reduced Lunches (School) 

Household* 

Median 

Income 

Three Large

Populations 

Race 

Fresno, CA West Large City 

& Rural 

Inside 

MSA 

427,652 Fresno 23 69,120 $32,236 50.2% Caucasi

23.4% Other 11.2% Asian 

Williamsport, PA Northeast Mid-size 

City 

30,706 Lycoming 22 3,069 $25,946 84.1% Caucasi

12.7% African1.7% Multirac

Tampa, FL South Urban 

Fringe of 

Large City 

303,447 Hillsborough 163 82,876 $34,415 64.2% Caucasi

26.1% African4.2% Other 

Columbia, MO Midwest Mid-size 

City 

84,531 Boone 9 4,440 $33,729 81.5% Caucasi

10.9% African4.3% Asian 

Memphis, TN South Large 

Central 

City 

650,000 Shelby 284 81,194 $32,285 61.4% African

34.4% Caucasi1.5% Asian 

Oklahoma City, 

OK 

Midwest Large 

Central 

City 

506,132 Oklahoma 70 30,828 $34,947 68.4% Caucasi

15.4% African3.5% Amer-In
3 

Alternate Sites 

SFSP Site Region 

Urbanicity 

(Locale 

Code) ** 

City * 

Population County** 

# of 

Sites 

*** 

Free ** and Reduced Lunches (School) 

Household* 

Median 

Income 

Three Large

Populations 

Race 

Cambridge. MD Northeast Rural, 

outside 

MSA 

10,911 Dorchester 4 2,047 $25,967 49.9% African

47.7% Caucasi0.07% Asian 

* Data obtained from US Census, 2000 ** Data obtained from Common Core of Data 2001-02 

*** Data obtained from ERS USDA SFSP Program Sites 2001
Attachment C-3 

Supporting Statement on SFSP Survey
1 

SUPPORTING STATEMENT 

SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM SURVEY 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) administers food 

programs that provide nutritionally balanced meals and snacks for eligible children who are 6 

through 18 years of age. The two largest programs, the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) 

and School Breakfast Program (SBP), make meals and snacks available to children who attend 

public and not-for-profit private schools. The NSLP and SBP provide lunch and after-school 

snacks during the regular school year to more than 27 million students in 100,000 schools 

nationwide and breakfast to nearly 8 million students in 70,000 schools. The NSLP and SBP 

make available free and reduced-price breakfasts and lunches to qualifying children based on 

family income. Children living in families earning at or below 130 percent of poverty, based on 

family size, qualify for free meals and those living in families earning between 130 percent and 

185 percent of poverty qualify for reduced-price meals. 

The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), which is administered by FNS, was designed to 

meet the summer food needs of eligible children who qualify for free or reduced-price breakfasts 

and lunches during the regular school year. During the summer months, federally funded meals 

are available through the SFSP at state-approved sites. A “site” is a physical location that 

provides SFSP meals and snacks during a regularly scheduled time period. Of the 15 million 

eligible children, only about 1.9 million (14%) participated in the SFSP in July 2002. Eligible 

children are those who qualify for free and reduced-price meals under the NSLP and SBP during 

the regular school year. Another 1.4 million of the 15 million eligible students (9%) who 

attended summer school or year-round schools in July 2002 were served free or reduced-price 

meals through NSLP. The SFSP and NSLP reached approximately 3.3 million children during 

the summer of 2002. 

It may not be reasonable to expect participation rates in SFSP to equal the levels of the NSLP 

and SBP because there are a number of differences that affect participation: 

 The NSLP and SBP are available in schools nationwide, whereas the SFSP is offered 

primarily in areas with high concentrations of low-income children. 

 School is mandatory, while programs associated with SFSP are voluntary. 

 Schools are required to provide transportation for students, while only one-third of SFSP 

sites provide transportation. 

Nonetheless, FNS is committed to ensuring adequate nutrition in the summer for children who 

are eligible for the free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch programs during the regular school 

year. The current research is an extension of past efforts and research undertaken by FNS, which 

was authorized by Congress, to increase participation in SFSP. To that end, FNS is very 

interested in determining why children who are eligible for SFSP do not participate in the 
2 

program. This information is necessary to develop strategies for increasing the participation of 

eligible children in SFSP. FNS is seeking answers in the research to such questions as: 

. Are families of qualifying children who do not participate aware of the SFSP? 

. If yes, what are the reasons for nonparticipation? 

In addition to increasing participation, FNS has a strong interest in evaluating how, and the 

extent to which, the food needs are being met for children who are eligible for SFSP but who do 

not participate. Questions to be answered in the research include the following: 

. Are qualifying children who do not participate in SFSP food insecure or hungry? 

. Is this different from the situation when the regular school year is in session? 

. What do parents or guardians of nonparticipating children do to feed their children 

during the summer, especially at lunch? 

FNS is also seeking information on the following research issues: 

 Are the perceptions and attitudes about the eating patterns of SFSP eligible children different 

for parents or guardians of nonparticipating children compared with children participating in 

SFSP? What are the perceptions and attitudes of parents or guardians about the eating 

patterns of their children, both those who participate and those who do not participate in 

SFSP, during the summer? 

 What are the childcare arrangements for SFSP eligible children if or when they are not 

participating in SFSP? 

 What are the feeding arrangements for children who typically participate in SFSP, during the 

time when SFSP is not available during the summer? 

The current research is required to support FNS’ need for information to support planning and 

strategy development to maximize the reach and effectiveness of SFSP in meeting the food needs 

of eligible children. 
Attachment C-4 

School District Superintendent Letter
1 

To: School District Superintendents 

Subject: Summer Food Service Program Research sponsored by USDA 

Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) of the United States Department of Agriculture looks forward 

to the support and assistance that your school and school district are able to provide to Felton & 

Harley Associates, Inc. in the fielding of the current research on the Summer Food Service 

Program (SFSP). Felton & Harley Associates, Inc. is under contract with USDA to conduct this 

research in four locations around the United States with households that have elementary-age 

children who qualify for free or reduced-price meals during the regular school year. 

Presently, there are a large number of elementary-age children who qualify, but do not participate, in 

the Summer Food Service Program during the summer month. FNS is concerned as to how and, even 

whether, their food needs are being met during the summer period. The Summer Food Service 

Program is an important tool in helping USDA to meet the summer food needs of qualifying 

children. The results of the research will be of valuable assistance to the management of FNS in 

developing strategies to increase the participation of children who currently perceive barriers to 

their participation in the SFSP. The research is also designed to aid in understanding the food needs 

of eligible children who do not participate in the SFSP. 

Information collected confidentially from households in your school district will only be presented 

in an aggregate form so as not identify specific households or individuals. Food and Nutrition 

Services and Felton & Harley Associates, Inc. will meet, if not exceed, all of the requirements of the 

Office of Management & Budget (OMB) to assure the privacy and confidentiality of information 

provided by households participating in this research. 

Again, I wish to extend my appreciation for your cooperation and assistance. Please contact me if I 

can be of assistance or if any questions should arise. I can be reached at the Office of Analysis, 

Nutrition and Evaluation at FNS at 703-605-0811 or by email at Fred.Lesnett@FNS.USDA.GOV. 

Sincerely, 

Frederick Lesnett 

Office of Analysis, Nutrition, and Evaluation 

Food Nutrition Services 

U.S. Department of Agriculture 
Attachment C-5 

Elementary School Principal Letter
1 

To: Elementary School Principals 

Subject: Summer Food Service Program Research sponsored by USDA 

Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) of the United States Department of Agriculture looks forward to 

the support and assistance that your school and school district are able to provide to Felton & Harley 

Associates, Inc. in the fielding of the current research on the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). 

Felton & Harley Associates, Inc. is under contract with USDA to conduct this research in four 

locations around the United States with households that have elementary-age children who qualify 

for free or reduced-price meals during the regular school year. 

Presently, there are a large number of elementary-age children who qualify, but do not participate, in 

the Summer Food Service Program during the summer month. FNS is concerned as to how and, even 

whether, their food needs are being met during the summer period. The Summer Food Service 

Program is an important tool in helping USDA to meet the summer food needs of qualifying 

children. The results of the research will be of valuable assistance to the management of FNS in 

developing strategies to increase the participation of children who currently perceive barriers to 

their participation in the SFSP. The research is also designed to aid in understanding the food needs 

of eligible children who do not participate in the SFSP. 

Information collected confidentially from households in your school district will only be presented 

in an aggregate form so as not identify specific households or individuals. Food and Nutrition 

Services and Felton & Harley Associates, Inc. will meet, if not exceed, all of the requirements of the 

Office of Management & Budget (OMB) to assure the privacy and confidentiality of information 

provided by households participating in this research. 

Again, I wish to extend my appreciation for your cooperation and assistance. Please contact me if I 

can be of assistance or if any questions should arise. I can be reached at the Office of Analysis, 

Nutrition and Evaluation at FNS at 703-605-0811 or by email at Fred.Lesnett@FNS.USDA.GOV. 

Sincerely, 

Frederick Lesnett 

Office of Analysis, Nutrition, and Evaluation 

Food Nutrition Services 

U.S. Department of Agriculture 
Attachment C-6 

Parent Letter from Principal 
1 

June 2004 

Dear parent or guardian 

This letter is to let you know about a study sponsored by the Food Nutrition Services of the U.S. 

Department of Agriculture to gather information about the breakfast and lunch arrangements you 

make for your school-aged children during the summer months while regular school is not in 

session. 

We are asking for your participation in this important project during the month of July or 

August. The specific date and time will be provided by Ms. Sheila Harley, Project Director, in a 

follow-up letter. The telephone interview will take no more than 20 minutes. In addition, the 

interviewers may ask about your interest and availability for an in-person interview. 

The information you share will help children in our community and elsewhere to participate to a 

larger extent in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Summer Food Service Program. 

If you have questions, please contact Stephen Broyles or Sheila Harley at 1-877-303-2292. 

Thanks for your cooperation! 

Sincerely, 

Principal, <NAME> Elementary School 
Attachment C-7 

Parent Letter from F&H
1 

June 2004 

Dear <PARENT/GUARDIAN NAME> 

This a follow-up letter to the one you received on May 15, 2004 from <NAME>, Principal of 

<NAME>Elementary School. For your convenience, I have enclosed a copy of the principal’s 

letter asking for your cooperation in this U.S. Department of Agriculture Summer Food Service 

Program Study. 

Your participation will help us all ensure that your children and other school-aged children in 

your community have the opportunity to eat daily nutritious meals. 

We will contact you by telephone in July or August. The telephone interview only requires 

about 20 minutes of your time. In addition, we may contact you again for an in-person interview 

at Davis Recreation Center. 

Your participation is entirely voluntary and we will keep confidential all information gathered. 

We look forward to having the opportunity to talk with you. 

If you have any questions at any point, please contact me at 202-530-7734. 

Sincerely, 

Sheila Harley 

SFSP Project Director 

Felton & Harley Associates 
Attachment C-8 

SFSP Site Director Letter 
1 

June 30, 2004 

Dear<SITE DIRECTOR NAME>, 

 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) administers food 

programs that provide nutritionally balanced meals and snacks for eligible children who are 6 

through 18 years of age. The two largest programs, the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) 

and School Breakfast Program (SBP), make meals and snacks available to qualifying children 

who attend public and not-for-profit private schools. Children living in families earning at or 

below 130 percent of poverty, based on family size, qualify for free meals and those living in 

families earning between 130 percent and 185 percent qualify for reduced-price meals. As you 

may know, FNS also sponsors a Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) that offers free meals to 

qualifying children through summer community programs. 

FNS is conducting a study this summer to determine how the food needs of eligible children are 

being met in the summer when regular school is not in session. This project is of extreme 

importance because only 3.3 million of the 15 million children who are eligible to receive free 

meals in the SFSP actually participate in the summer programs. The study will involve 

interviewing parents of both eligible children who participate in the SFSP programs and those 

who do not. We will be conducting a short telephone interview with about 50 parents in your 

area, and then follow-up in-person interviews with about 25 of those parents. 

We would like to use some space in your facility for one or two days to conduct the in-person 

interviews. Your assistance will help us all ensure that children in your community and other 

school-aged children across the United States have the opportunity to eat daily nutritious meals. 

If you have any questions about the study, you may contact Stephen Broyles at 202-530-7740. 

Sincerely, 

 

Sheila Harley 

SFSP Project Director 

Felton & Harley Associates 
Attachment C-9 

Study Screener 




Attachment C-10 

Telephone Non-Participant, Not Familiar (TNN) 

Questionnaire 











Attachment C-11 

Telephone Non-Participant, Familiar(TNF) 

Questionnaire 












Attachment C-12 

Telephone Participant (TP) 

Questionnaire 











Attachment 13 

In-Person, Non-Participant (IN) 

Questionnaire 








Attachment C-14 

In-Person, Participant (IP) 

Questionnaire 








Attachment C-15 

Training Agenda
1 

Analysis of the SFSP 

and Food Needs of Nonparticipating Children 

Telephone Interview Training Agenda 

July 12, 2004, Telephone conference 

10:00am – 10:10am Sheila Harley Introductions 

10:10am – 10:20am Fred Lesnett Introduction to the Study and 

Background 

10:20am – 10:35am Stephen Broyles Overview of Interviewer Tasks and 

Interview Schedule (Chap 2) 

10:35am – 11:00am Susie McNutt Home Study Review 

 

11:00am – 11:30am Stephen Broyles Overview of the Screener and 

 Contact Procedures (Chap 2) 

11:30am – 12:00am Susie McNutt Screener Interview (Chap 3) 

 

12:00am – 1:00pm Susie McNutt Telephone Interview (Chap 4) 

1:00pm – 2:00pm LUNCH BREAK Lunch Break Exercises 

 

2:00pm – 3:00pm Susie McNutt Review Lunch Break Exercises 

3:00pm – 3:30pm J. Lucas-McLean Labeling, Editing and Return 

Interviews 

3:30pm – 3:45pm Stephen Broyles Explain Role Plays/Certification 

3:45pm - 4:00pm Sheila Harley Administrative Procedures 

4:00pm Adjournment 
2 

In-person Interview Training Agenda 

August 4, 2004, Telephone conference 

10:00am – 10:1am Susie McNutt Introductions 

10:10am – 10:30am Susie McNutt Procedures for Qualitative Testing 

10:30am – 11:00am Susie McNutt In-Person Interview 

11:00am - 12:00pm Susie McNutt Role plays 
Attachment C-16 

Self-Paced Home Study 
1 

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) 

SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM (SFSP) 

SURVEY 

HOMESTUDY 

This Home Study will familiarize you with the four questionnaires that will be used 

in this project. Please complete the Home Study before the training on July 12 and 

bring it to the training. Use your training manual to answer the questions. The Home 

Study should take no more than 2 hours to complete. 

Overview 

1. What is the target population? 

a. Food Stamp recipients 

b. Children in elementary school 

c. Households with children in elementary school who participate in the 

school breakfast/lunch program 

2. Circle the interviews that will be conducted in this study. [CODE ALL THAT 

APPLY] 

a. Telephone Screener 

b. Telephone Extended interview (TNN, TNF, TP) 

c. Follow-up in-person interview 

3. Fill in the grid below. 

Interviews Telephone or Inperson? How much time to 

complete? 

Amount of 

Incentive? 

Screener 

TNN 

TNF 

TP 

Follow-up 

Look on page 4-21 
2 

Screener 

1. Where do you get the label that you affix to the Screener? 

a. The Screener will be pre-labeled 

b. From a sheet of unique labels provided in the interviewer package 

2. Where do you get the site name/address information that you enter on the 

Screener cover? 

a. The information will be pre-filled 

b. The information will be provided in the interviewer package 

3. What do you do before beginning the interview? 

a. Affix the label to the cover 

b. Record the necessary information on the cover 

c. Both a and b 

4. In your own words, summarize the Screener introduction. 

_______________________________________________ 

_____________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________ 

_____________________________________________ 

5. How much time will the Screener interview take? 

a. 10 minutes 

b. 15 minutes 

c. 20 minutes 
3 

6. Complete the following grid. The first row is a sample. 

What do you do if the HH 

doesn’t have....... 

Go 

to... Read.... 

Children between 6-19 years 

old? 

END I’m sorry, your HH is not eligible to participate 

in this study because there are no children 6-18 

years old in your HH. 

Children in elementary school in 

the past year? 

 

A parent/guardian is not 

available to complete the 

Screener? 

 

An elementary school-aged 

child who participates in school 

breakfast or school lunch 

programs? 

 

7. Complete the following grid. 

How many HHs will you recruit that ......... #HHs 

Do not participate in the summer programs you name in S6? 

Are not familiar with the summer programs you name in S6? 

Do participate in the summer program(s) that you name in 

S6? 

Participate in a summer program at a public school? 

8. What is the purpose of the Callback Box? 

_______________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________ 

Example 
4 

9. Look at Box A. Match the abbreviations with the following questionnaires. 

Questionnaire Abbreviation 

Telephone Participant 

Telephone Non-participant, Familiar 

Telephone Non-participant, Not familiar 

10. What is the purpose of Box A? 

_______________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________ 

11. When will you conduct the TNN, TNF, and TP? 

a. Immediately after you complete the Screener 

b. Set an appointment to call back 

c. Set an appointment for an in-person interview 

12. What do you need to document on the cover after you complete the Screener? 

a. Date of interview 

b. Date received 

c. Stop time 
5 

Telephone, Non-participant, Not familiar (TNN) 

1. What do you do before administering the TNN? 

a. Affix the label to the cover 

b. Record the necessary information on the cover 

c. Both a and b 

2. If QS1 in the Screener = 1, what do you do? 

a. Begin with TNN1 

b. Go to TNN4 

c. Go to TNN7 

3. Look at TNN1-6. If the R answers yes to TNN1, who are you trying to identify? 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

4. If there is more than one eligible child in the household, how do you identify the 

target child? 

__________________________________________________ 

5. Look at TNN19. Why is code ‘01’ for the first two responses ‘bolded’? 

__________________________________________________ 
6 

6. Complete the grid for TNN19. Record the skip patterns for each response. 

Coded Go to.... Then go 

to.... 

Then go 

to... 

Provides Breakfast?=01 Box B TNN20 Box C 

Provides Breakfast? = 02 

Provides Lunch?=01 

Provides Lunch? = 02 

Be open all day?=01 

Provides transportation?=01 

Provides a safe environment?=02 

7. Look at TNN23 and 24. Why are the ‘01’ codes ‘bolded’? 

__________________________________________________ 

8. If TNN23 is coded ‘02’ and TNN24 is coded ‘03’, where do you go? 

__________________________________________________ 

9. If the respondent reports that the child does not eat breakfast in TNN27, which 

questions do you skip? 

__________________________________________________ 

10. If the respondent reports that the child does not eat lunch in TNN30, which 

questions do you skip? 

__________________________________________________ 

11. What information are questions TNN33-35 trying to capture? 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

12. What do you do if a respondent refuses to answer a question and there is not a 

‘REFUSED’ response? 

__________________________________________________ 

Example 
7 

13. What do you need to document on the cover after you complete the TNN 

questionnaire? 

a. Date of interview 

b. Date received 

c. Stop time 

14. Will respondents be contacted again? 

a. Yes, all will be contacted for a follow-up telephone interview 

b. Yes, all will be scheduled for an in-person interview 

c. Yes, some will be contacted for a second telephone interview 

d. Yes, some will be scheduled for an in-person interview 
8 

Telephone, Non-Participant, Familiar (TNF) 

1. What do you do before administering the TNF? 

a. Affix the label to the cover 

b. Record the necessary information on the cover 

c. Both a and b 

2. Look at TNF12. Why are two of the responses ‘bolded’? 

__________________________________________________ 

3. What is the purpose of questions TNF15-20? 

a. To obtain information on the summer program(s) that the child attended 

that was not an SFSP program 

b. To obtain information on the summer program(s) that the child attended 

that offered breakfast and/or lunch that was not an SFSP program 

c. To find out why the child did not attend an SFSP program 

d. Both b and c 

4. What is the purpose of questions TNF21-22? 

a. To obtain information about other programs in the community that offered 

breakfast and/or lunch 

b. To obtain information about other programs in the community, other than in 

a public school, that offered breakfast and/or lunch 

c. To obtain information about the type of activities these programs offered 

d. Both b and c 
9 

5. The statements in TNF23 could be sensitive to some respondents. As an 

interviewer, what will you do to make sure that the respondent feels comfortable 

answering the questions? 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

6. Which questions is TNF26 referring to? 

__________________________________________________ 

7. Compare the TNF questionnaire to TNN and list the TNF questions that are 

exactly the same. 

___TNF1-11________________________________________

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

8. What do you need to document on the cover after you complete the TNF 

questionnaire? 

a. Date of interview 

b. Date received 

c. Stop time 

Example 
10 

Telephone, Participant (TP) 

1. What do you do before administering the TP? 

a. Affix the label to the cover 

b. Record the necessary information on the cover 

c. Both a and b 

2. What are the differences between questions TP1-TP4 and TNN1-7 and TNF1-7? 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

3. What is the purpose of TP9-14? 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

4. TP21-30 are the same in all three questionnaires. What are the question 

numbers in the other two questionnaires? 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

5. What is the purpose of TP21-27? 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

6. What is the purpose of TP28-30? 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________ 
11 

7. What do you need to document on the cover after you complete the TP 

questionnaire? 

a. Date of interview 

b. Date received 

c. Stop time 
Attachments C-17a and C-17b 

Training Exercises
1 

Attachment 17a

 

RECRUITMENT SCREENER EXERCISE 

RECRUITMENT GRID FOR 

____Susie___________________________________ 

SCREENER 

BOX A LINE 

TYPE Record # 

Recruited 

MAXIMUM 

A Non-participant, 

Not familiar 

1111 1111 

1111 

B Non-participant, 

familiar 

1111 111 

} 40 

C Participant, 

SFSP not public 

school 

1111 1 

D Participant, 

SFSP in public 

school 

1111 

} 10;D<4 
2 

Attachment 17b 

U.S. DEPARMENT O AGRICULTURE (USDA) 

SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM SURVEY (SFSP) 

Lunch Break Exercises 

Please complete these exercises on your lunch break between 1:00-2:00P EST. 

Be prepared to review them at the first session after lunch. 

Exercises – Screener

1. Use your Screener and the Recruitment Grid for Connie (below). The first 

column indicates the question; the second column indicates what is coded. 

Question Coded Eligible? If eligible, go 

to... 

If not eligible, go 

to.. 

S6 01 Yes TNN NA 

S7 01 

S8 01 

S8 02 

Recruitment Grid 

RECRUITMENT GRID FOR _____Connie________________ 

SCREENER 

BOX A LINE 

TYPE Record # Recruited MAXIMUM 

A Non-participant, Not 

familiar 

1111 1111 1111

B Non-participant, familiar 1111 111 

 40 

C Participant, SFSP not 

public school 

1111 111 

D Participant, SFSP in public 

school 

11 

 10;D<4 

Example 
3 

2. Use your Screener and the Recruitment Grid for Helen to complete this table. 

HH with elementary-aged 

child who participates in 

school breakfast.... 

Question Go to.. Eligible? If not eligible, what 

do you do? 

not familiar with SFSP 

programs 

S6 Box A, 

Line A 

No END, Read Line A 

familiar with SFSP programs, 

did not participate in program 

Participated, not in public 

school 

Participated in public school 

RECRUITMENT GRID FOR ____Helen________________

SCREENER 

BOX A LINE 

TYPE Record # Recruited MAXIMUM 

A Non-participant, Not familiar 1111 1111 1111 

1111 1111 11

B Non-participant, Familiar 1111 1111 111 

 40 

C Participant, SFSP not public 

school 

1111 

D Participant, SFSP in public 

school 

1111 

 10;D<4 

Example 
4 

Exercises - TNN

1. Please turn to Question TNN19. The first column of the table below 

represents the response items and the second column represents the coded 

responses. Complete the table by entering the information requested in the 

last three columns. The first row is an example.

Question – TNN 19 Code Go to... Then go to... Then go to.... 

Provides breakfast? BOX B TNN20 Box C 

Provides breakfast? 02 

Provides lunch? 01 

Provides lunch? 02 

Be open all day? 01 

Be open all day? 02 

Provides transportation? 01 

Provides transportation? 02 

Provides a safe environment? 01 

Provides a safe environment? 02 

2. Please turn to Questions TNN23 and 24. The first column of the table below 

represents the questions and the second column represents the coded 

responses. Complete the table by entering the information requested in the 

last three columns. The first row is an example. 

Question – TNN 23 & 24 Code Go to... Then go to... Then go to.... 

TNN23 01 NN24 BOX D TNN25 

TNN24 01 

TNN23 01 

TNN24 02 

 

TNN23 02 

TNN24 01 

 

TNN23 02 

TNN24 03 

 

Example 

Example 
5 

Exercises - TNF

1. Please turn to Question TNF12. The first column of the table below 

represents the coded responses to TNF12. Complete the table by entering 

the information requested in the last four columns. The first row is an 

example.

Question – TNF 12

Code Go to... Then go to... Then go to.... Then go to... 

01 BOX B BOX C TNF18 TNF21 

02 

04 

07 

10 

13 

16 

19 

02 & 05 

06 & 16 

01 & 12 

2. Please turn to Questions TNF24 and 25. The first column of the table below 

represents the questions and the second column represents the coded 

responses. Complete the table by entering the information requested in the 

last three columns. The first row is an example.

Question – TNF 24 & 25 Code Go to... Then go to... Then go to.... 

TNN24 01 TNF25 BOX D TNF26 

TNN25 01 

TNN24 02 

TNN25 01 

 

TNN24 02 

TNN25 03 

 

Example 

Example