When school is out, many children lose access to the free or reduced-price meals they depend on. Summer meal programs fill that gap by providing free meals at locations across the country.
The USDA Summer Food Service Program
The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) is a federally funded program that provides free meals to children 18 and under during the summer months when school is not in session. Meals are served at approved sites throughout communities nationwide — parks, libraries, community centers, churches, and schools.
How to Find Summer Meal Sites
Finding a site near you is easy:
- Call 211 and ask about summer meal programs in your area
- Text FOOD to 304-304 to receive a list of nearby sites
- Visit the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder online at fns.usda.gov
- Check with your school district, public library, or parks and recreation department
Who Is Eligible
Any child under 18 can eat at a summer meal site — no registration, no income verification, no ID required. Children do not need to be enrolled in the free or reduced-price lunch program during the school year. They simply show up and eat.
Adults can eat too at some sites. At certain open sites, adults may purchase meals at a low cost. And in some tribal communities, meals are available to people of all ages. Check with your local site for details.
What the Meals Look Like
Summer meals must meet USDA nutrition standards. A typical lunch includes a protein, grain, fruit or vegetable, and milk. Breakfast is also offered at many sites. The meals are designed to be nutritionally balanced and kid-friendly.
Summer EBT (SUN Bucks)
In addition to meal sites, the new Summer EBT program (SUN Bucks) provides eligible families with $120 per child loaded onto an EBT card during summer months. This benefit is available to children who receive free or reduced-price school meals. Check with your state to see if you are automatically enrolled.
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Relief Resource Center may receive compensation when you use links or tools on this page. All programs listed are subject to eligibility requirements and availability. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice.