Free Food for Kids this Summer!

Free Food for Kids this Summer!

Summer BreakSpot provides nutritious meals at no cost to children 18 and under while school is out for the summer. Many meal sites are located at places like parks, libraries and churches and offer breakfasts, lunches, snacks or supper. To find a location, visit our site finder map, text “FoodFL” to 877-877 or dial 2-1-1 when schools begin releasing for the summer break.

Summer is a time when many children face “food insecurity.” Luckily there’s several sites in central Florida that provide free lunch to kids up to age 18. Visit this site for more information: https://www.summerbreakspot.org

Or text “FoodFL” to 877-877 or dial 2-1-1 when schools begin releasing for the summer break.

Parents and Families

If you’re not familiar with Summer BreakSpot, below are some frequently asked questions and answers. If you have additional questions, contact our office at InfoFNW@FreshFromFlorida.com or by phone at 1-800-504-6609.

 

How do I find a meal location?

When schools are released for the summer, our website stays up-to-date with an interactive map that allows you to find meal locations. You can also find a location by dialing 2-1-1 or texting the phrase “FoodFL” to 877-877.

 

What are the requirements for my child to receive a meal?

At almost all sites, there is no application necessary and any child 18 or younger can simply come during meal times to receive a meal.

Exception: A few sites (like overnight camps and sites in higher income areas) do require that parents fill out a form about family income for children to receive meals.

 

Is there a cost for meals?

There is no cost for meals. USDA requires that meals be served at no charge to the children. However, the site may have a fee for any extra program activities that they provide.

 

Is transportation available?

In urban areas, many sites are within walking distance. Some sites are mobile and visit different areas throughout the day. Transportation is sometimes available in rural areas or in conjunction with a site’s program activities. If this is a concern for you, contact nearby sites and ask if they offer transportation.

 

Who funds the Summer BreakSpot?

The Summer BreakSpot Program, also known as the Summer Food Service Program, is federally funded under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and, in Florida, administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Sites are locally operated by nonprofit organizations (sponsors) that provide the meals and receive a reimbursement from USDA.

 

What kind of food is served in the Summer BreakSpot?

Summer BreakSpot sites serve nutritionally balanced meals that meet USDA guidelines.

Breakfasts include:

  • 1 serving of milk
  • 1 serving of fruits or vegetables
  • 1 serving of grains

Lunches/Suppers include:

  • 1 serving of milk
  • 2 servings of fruits and/or vegetables
  • 1 serving of grains
  • 1 serving of protein

Snacks include 2 of the following:

  • 1 serving of milk
  • 1 serving of fruits or vegetables
  • 1 serving of grains
  • 1 serving of protein

 

There are no sites near me. What can I do to ensure one is available for the kids in my area next summer?

Contact our office to find out if a sponsor already exists in your area by emailing InfoFNW@FreshFromFlorida.com or calling 1-800-504-6609. If there are no meal sites in your area, you can help to find sponsors in the community. A school district, nonprofit organization or local government agency can become a sponsor who is responsible for the administration of the program.