District Newsletter: Free Summer Meals for All Students This Summer

Summer meal programs ensure that children who rely on school meals during the year do not face food insecurity over the summer. Many families who qualify are not aware the program exists or do not know where their nearest site is. A clear newsletter at the end of the school year, and again as summer begins, is one of the most direct ways a district can reduce summer hunger.

What the Summer Meal Program Offers

The Summer Food Service Program provides free breakfast and lunch to children 18 and under at no cost regardless of family income. No ID, income documentation, or enrollment in district schools is required. Children simply need to show up at a participating site during meal service hours. Meals meet federal nutrition standards and typically include a hot or cold entree, fruit or vegetables, milk, and a grain item.

Where to Find Meals

Meal sites are open at [list school locations and community sites]. Hours vary by site. A complete list of sites, addresses, and hours is available at [URL] and is updated throughout the summer as new sites are added or hours change. You can also find nearby summer meal sites by texting FOOD to 304-304 or visiting the USDA Summer Meals site finder.

How to Prepare Families to Use the Program

No registration is required. Children arrive during meal service hours and are served. Adults accompanying children can purchase a meal at most sites for [cost] or receive a free meal at sites participating in the adult meal component. Families using the program for the first time are welcome to call the district nutrition office at [phone number] with questions before visiting a site.

A Sample Summer Meals Newsletter Excerpt

"Free breakfast and lunch are available for all kids under 18 this summer at [number] sites across the community. No paperwork, no income check, no appointment. Just show up during meal hours. Here is where the sites are and when they are open. Pass this along to any family in your neighborhood who might need it."

Summer Meal Site Staff

Each site is staffed by district nutrition employees who welcome all children. Sites are safe, friendly environments. Some sites include activities, reading programs, or enrichment activities alongside meals. Check the site listing for locations that offer programming in addition to meals.

Spreading the Word

The summer meal program only reaches children whose families know about it. Families are encouraged to share this newsletter with neighbors, relatives, and community members who may not receive district communications. The program is open to all children in the community, not just families enrolled in district schools.

Changes From Last Year

This year, we have added [number] new sites compared to last summer. Hours at [site name] have extended to [new hours]. If you used the program last year and found a site that no longer appears on the list, it may have moved or changed hours. Check [URL] for the current list. Daystage newsletters link directly to the site finder map.