Summer nutrition assistance locations for families with children provided by Kentucky Department of Education
The Summer Food Service Program, known as Sun Meals, is an essential initiative administered by the Kentucky Department of Education. This program, part of the National Summer Food Service Program operated by the USDA, aims to provide nutritious meals to children in rural areas for multiple days during the summer months when school is out of session.
The growth of the Sun Meals program can be attributed to increased awareness and participation. This year, more than 2,000 sites across the state will serve meals to Kentucky children. Detailed information about these sites, distribution days, and whether meals are eaten on site or are available to go can be found on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDAs) Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder.
The Site Finder is a valuable tool provided by the USDA for locating meal sites. Alternatively, the USDA Hunger Hotline at 866-348-6479 is another resource for obtaining information about meal sites and distribution days.
In some rural areas, meals may be provided "to go" to children, parents, or guardians. The Sun Meals program partners with school districts and community organizations statewide to offer meals, recreational fun, and educational activities.
It's important to note that the search results from the Site Finder do not provide specific information about which organizations in Kentucky are offering meals within the Sun Meals summer meal programs this year, nor data about the number of distribution sites or meals served. For more detailed information, it's recommended to contact the organizations providing meals directly.
The Sun Meals program operates under the auspices of the Kentucky Department of Education and offers a variety of activities in addition to meals, such as recreation and education. The program provides meals at no cost from late May through August to children 18 and under in low-income areas.
By ensuring that children in Kentucky have access to nutritious meals during the summer months, the Sun Meals program plays a crucial role in supporting the health and wellbeing of the state's youth.
