On June 9, 2023, the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) urged Pennsylvanians to remember the many food assistance programs available to children and their families during the summer months.

“It is critical that students continue to have access to healthy meals when school is not in session, especially during the summer months when they’re busy growing, learning, and playing,” said Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “There are hundreds of summer food sites operating across the Commonwealth, and it’s easier than ever to find a site near you. We encourage all parents and caretakers to locate their nearest location online or by phone or text.”

The USDA Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder can help families access Summer Meal Program locations in their area. The program provides meals to children participating in enrichment, recreational, or activity programs over the summer. The site finder is also available in Spanish. It is updated weekly over the summer months.

Individuals can also find sites by calling 211, 1-866-3-Hungry, or 1-877-8Hambre, or by texting “Summer” or “VERANO” to 914-342-7744.

Children 18 years and under may receive meals through the program. And individuals 19 years and older who have a mental and physical disability and participates during the school year in a public or private school program is also eligible to receiver meals.

Meals are served at sites located in areas with significant concentrations of children from low-income families. All meals and snacks served through the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) must meet federal nutrition standards, and require servings of grains, proteins, fruits and vegetables, and milk.

The SFSP, which began in 1976, is a federally-funded child nutrition program designed to reach those who are age 18 or younger in economically disadvantaged areas.