Free Summer Meals for Kids Summer 2019

Free Summer Meals for Kids
Posted on 06/16/2019

When school lets out, hunger sets in for thousands of students who rely on school meals during the academic year, especially as family budgets are stretched tight. While New Jersey has made great strides in serving up summer meals to more kids, just 26 percent of children who receive free or reduced-price lunch also received summer meals in 2018.

To combat childhood hunger – and keep children healthy all year long – communities across New Jersey serve free, healthy summer meals. 

Many summer meals sites offer fun learning and recreational activities so kids and teens can eat a healthy meal while staying active and being with friends. Meals are free to children and teens ages 18 and younger and follow federal nutrition guidelines for low fat and sugar and whole grains. Families do not need to apply nor show ID/proof of income to receive free meals for children. They can simply bring their child to a summer meals site in their community.

To locate open meal sites, text “food” to 97779, visit summerfoodrocks.org/sitefinder or call the National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-HUNGRY3. Check with the organization to be sure meal days and times are accurate. Phone numbers are provided with meal site listings.

For more information, visit njsummermeals.org.  See the flyer below for more information.

Free Summer Meals for Kids