State Schools Chief Tom Torlakson Announces Statewide Summer Meals Program
SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson encourages parents, caregivers, child care organizations, and community groups to take advantage of the Summer Meals Program that provides free meals to children eighteen or younger at local community sites.
“Nutritious meals help a child thrive both physically and mentally,” Torlakson said. “The Summer Meals Program helps to keep kids well-nourished during the summer months so they can return to the classroom prepared and ready to learn.”
The Summer Meals Program begins when school districts end their school year. For a complete list of participating sites, visit the California Department of Education Summer Meals Service Sites Web page.
Summer Meals is part of the Summer Food Service Program, which is a federally funded and state-administered program that operates when schools are closed for at least 15 continuous school days or when year-round schools are off track. The program provide meals to children who qualify for free or reduced-price meals during the school year or who live in areas where at least 50 percent of students are eligible to receive those meals.
“This program will help feed children in communities where food insecurity is a real issue,” Torlakson said. “Students who live in those areas can receive meals without paperwork. No child is turned away.”
Community celebrations around the state mark the start of the Summer Meals Program. The Sacramento Summer Meals Program kick-off event is Thursday (June 15, 2017) at 11:15 a.m. at the Central YMCA, 2021 W Street, Sacramento, 95818. For details, visit Healthyeating.org.
Tom Torlakson — State Superintendent of Public Instruction
Communications Division, Room 5602, 916-319-0818, Fax 916-319-0100
Torlakson Announces Statewide Summer Meals Program - Year 2017 (CA Dept of Education):Communications Division, Room 5602, 916-319-0818, Fax 916-319-0100
