During the school year, more than 21 million children receive free and reduced-price meals, but only about 1 in 6 of those students participate in the summer meals programs. That is the critical gap that the summer meals programs work to fill. For many students, school meals provide for over half of their daily calories during the academic year, which means that ensuring these children have access to healthy food-including over the summer-is a big priority for their growth and development.
Research confirms that food insecurity can impact young children's cognitive health and can contribute to poorer school performance, a greater likelihood of illness, and higher healthcare costs. This program makes it possible for any child under the age of 18 to visit a designated summer meal site and eat for free.
There are several North Country locations offering free meals to children. To locate them, click
here or dial 1-866-348-6479 (English) or 1-877-842-6273 (Spanish).
Posted 6/30/16
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