How summer meals work
The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) reimburses parks, libraries, churches, schools, and community centers to serve free meals to any child age 18 or younger during the summer. There is no application, no income test, no ID requirement — kids walk up, eat a meal on site, and leave. Sites are required to be in an area where at least 50% of children qualify for free or reduced-price meals during the school year, which covers most low-income neighborhoods.
Finding a site near you
Text 'FOOD' or 'COMIDA' to 304-304 to get a list of nearby summer meal sites. You can also call 1-866-3-HUNGRY (1-866-348-6479) or 1-877-8-HAMBRE in Spanish. The USDA also publishes an online site finder each summer. Most sites operate June through August, weekday mornings and lunchtime. Hours vary — many are open just 1-2 hours per day, so check before you go.
SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)
Beginning summer 2024, USDA launched a permanent Summer EBT program — branded SUN Bucks in most states. Eligible children automatically receive $120 per child for the summer, loaded onto an EBT card families can use at grocery stores. Eligibility mirrors free/reduced school meals: households on SNAP, TANF, FDPIR or income-eligible for free/reduced meals are automatically enrolled in participating states. Not every state has opted in, and tribal nations administer the program directly in many areas.
What to expect on site
SFSP meals are typically a sack lunch with a sandwich, fruit, vegetable, and milk, eaten on-site. Some sites operate 'Grab-and-Go' models where kids can take meals home. Adults usually pay a small fee or are not served. Activities like reading time, sports, and crafts are common at SFSP sites, especially those at parks and libraries — many sites are designed as full programs, not just meal handouts.
Backup options if no site is near you
If no SFSP site is within walking distance, look for Mobile Pantry routes from your local food bank — many run weekly summer routes. WIC continues year-round for kids under 5. Local pantries (browse our directory) can fill in. SNAP enrollment is more important in the summer than during the school year for school-age kids.
Where to go from here
If this program looks like a fit for your household, take 10 minutes today to start an application or call your local agency. Even if you are unsure whether you qualify, the application is the easiest way to find out — there is no penalty for applying and being denied. If you need food while you wait for a decision, browse the pantry directory for a site near you, or read our same-day help guide.