Why it matters
The summer hunger gap
For millions of children, school breakfast and lunch are a dependable source of nutrition — and summer breaks that chain. Hunger over summer harms health, learning, and readiness for fall. Summer meal programs exist to close that gap, at no cost to families.The programs
How summer meals work
The USDA’s Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and Seamless Summer Option let schools, cities, libraries, and nonprofits serve free meals to children and teens (generally 18 and under) at approved sites — parks, schools, community centers — usually with no application or proof of income required.Expanding access
Newer options: to-go & benefits
Beyond on-site meals, options have grown to include grab-and-go and delivered meals in some areas, and Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) — grocery benefits loaded onto a card for eligible families — to reach kids where sites are hard to access. Availability varies by state and year.Connecting the dots
Help families find meals
Families can find nearby sites through the USDA site finder, by texting the food line, or by calling 2-1-1. Schools and program leaders should promote sites in end-of-year communications, on the website, and through partners — awareness is often the biggest barrier.Running or supporting a site
For schools & leaders
Districts and organizations can sponsor or host meal sites, which brings reimbursement and pairs naturally with summer learning programs — food plus enrichment keeps kids coming. Start with your state agency that administers child nutrition programs.At a glance
Key facts
SFSP: free summer meals for kids 18 and under at approved sites — usually no application.
Summer EBT / SUN Bucks: grocery benefits for eligible families where sites are scarce.
Find sites: USDA finder, text the food line, or call 2-1-1.
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