For many kids, summertime means two things: fun and friends. But when school's out, that also means that families can't count on their kids eating meals at school, and already tight family food budgets have to be stretched even further. Parents also know that growing kids have big appetites.
Beginning June 27 through August 21, 2018, NYC offers again its Free Summer Meals program, providing nutritious breakfast and lunch options at nearly 1,200 sites across the city. All children under the age of 18 are eligible to participate at sites, including schools, parks, pools and libraries across all five boroughs. No identification or application is required.
"Providing free, high-quality and nutritious meal options to young people through Summer Meals is critical for ensuring the wellbeing of students throughout the summer months," said Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza. "We want every family in NYC to know these meals are available at a site near them, and we encourage them to take advantage of this important program."
Meals are available Monday through Friday with breakfast served from 8:00am to 9:15am, and lunch served from 11:00am to 1:15pm. Select locations will also offer meals on Saturday and Sunday. This year's summer breakfast menu features whole grain bagels, yogurt parfaits along with organic cereal and seasonal fresh fruit. The summer lunch menu features flatbread pizza, beef burgers, apples and green garden salad.
There are a few different options to find the nearest location for NYC Summer Meals. You can simply text "nycmeals" to 877-877 or call 311 or 1-800-522-5006, provide your zip code, and the operator will tell you where you can find free meals. If you want all the important information at the tip of your fingers, you can now download the SchoolFood app, available via iPhone app store or Google Play. And of course, all information is also readily available on the SchoolFood's website.