This program provides free, nutritious meals to children and youth under 18 across Greater Philadelphia when school is not in session.

The federally funded Summer Meals Program is managed nationwide by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and administered regionally by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

"During the summer months when schools are not in session, our priority is to make healthy meals available to children," said Lizanne Hagedorn, executive director of NDS. "This can only be accomplished through community organizations who are willing to distribute meals where children are present."

The meal program can be run in locations such as schools, community centers, playgrounds, camps, parks, and churches. It can also operate in non-traditional spaces like WIC offices, libraries, apartment buildings, townhouse community rooms, Family Service Centers, and other community venues.

Meals are delivered fresh daily, ready to eat with no preparation needed. Summer Meals sites serve both breakfast and lunch, featuring whole grains, low-fat milk, protein-rich options, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. All meals meet federal nutrition guidelines, with lunches providing one-third of children's daily nutritional needs.

Hagedorn expressed appreciation for organizations partnering with NDS to help "nourish children in the Philadelphia area."

Those interested in enrolling can call the Summer Meals Hotline at 215-895-3470, option 1. For more details, visit here.