The Summer Meal Program refers to the free meal program offered during summer months that provides nutritious meals to all children at no charge, regardless of income, race or religion.
Just as learning does not end when school lets out, neither does the need for good nutrition. Children who aren’t hungry learn better, act better and feel better. The Summer Food Service Program helps children get the nutrition they need during the summer. During the school year, more than 18 million children receive free and reduced-price meals at school. During the summer, that number drops to about 3 million.
Summer Food Service Programs provide nutritious breakfast and lunch meals to all children including those in need and, when coupled with recreation and tutoring programs, are of great benefit to them.