For the 44th year in a row, children in Long Beach can receive free, healthy meals at local parks throughout the summer.
The Summer Food Service Program was started by the United States Department of Agriculture in 1968 to reimburse local providers who serve free, nutritious meals and snacks to children ages 18 and younger. The idea behind the program is to continue providing healthy meals for children during the months when they are not attending school and eating there.
Over 9 million children in the United States are food insecure, meaning they have less food in their homes than is possible to lead a healthy life, according to the USDA.
Long Beach has participated in the program since 1979, according to the city’s website, and has provided more than two million meals to youth.
“The Summer Food Service Program offers Long Beach youth continued access to nutritious meals when school is out for summer,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “We’re proud to continue this longstanding food equity service for our younger generation so they can stay healthy and thrive.”
Children can receive free meals Mondays through Fridays through Aug. 25 (excluding 4th of July) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 23 locations in Signal Hill and Long Beach. Meals will consist of nutritious options such as milk, juice, fruits, vegetables and more. Infant meals will not be provided.
To receive a meal, youth can simply arrive at a participating location during its designated times. No registration is required, but youth must consume meals at the location. View the full list of times and locations on the city’s website or by calling the Summer Food Office at 562.570.3524.
