Whether school is out for the summer or just on a short break, many Wake County children look forward to time off filled with fun, friends and relaxation. But for some, these breaks can also bring uncertainty about where their next meal will come from.
To help, Wake County is making sure children 18 and under can enjoy healthy food all summer long with no questions asked and no registration required. This is made possible through the United States Department of Agriculture’s Summer Food Service Program. This summer 16 sites across Wake County will serve free breakfasts and lunches to kids in their communities.
Beech Bluff Park in Willow Spring serves as a new location this year, offering free lunch service on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to noon, starting today, June 24, and continuing through Thursday, July 31. You can view all locations here.
“It’s up to all of us to make sure children get the food and nutrition they need, whether school is in or out for the summer,” said Tara Waters, Wake County Commissioner. “We’re proud to be adding Beech Bluff Park this year and extending these services to even more children in our community.”
The Wake County Cooperative Extension supports the Summer Food Service Program by helping to establish sites and connect families to resources. Some sites will also feature fun enrichment activities alongside the meal service, making sure children not only stay fed but also engaged and supported during the months away from school.
For a complete list of locations, hours, dates and more visit wake.gov/summerfood.
More ways to eat healthy this summer
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits have double their value at participating Wake County Farmers Markets. For every dollar you spend with SNAP, you get another dollar to buy fresh, local produce.
This summer, many families also received NC SUN Bucks, providing $120 per eligible child to help with food costs while school is out. These SUN Bucks can be used at local farmers markets and just like SNAP, they qualify for Double Bucks, stretching your grocery dollars even further.
In addition, shoppers can give back through the Produce to Pantry program by donating fresh produce directly to food banks. It’s a simple way to reduce food waste and support neighbors in need.
To find a participating farmer’s market near you and learn how to use your SNAP benefits, visit: wake.gov/farmersmarket
