San Diego’s Children and Families Get More Options to Alleviate Food Insecurity Through Summer Months

Children and families suffering from food insecurity in the city of San Diego will have more options for meals during the summer months, thanks to a joint effort announced Friday between the San Diego Unified School District and community hubs around the region, such as libraries and recreation centers.

Schools, YMCAs, military sites, public libraries, parks and recreation centers, and other neighborhood organizations will offer free breakfasts and lunches to children and teens along with nutrition education resources, reading activities, and food benefits for families to purchase groceries.

“When school is out for summer break, a large number of kids lose access to the healthy meals they rely on during the school year,” said Alicia Pitrone Hauser, SDUSD’s food and nutrition services director, in a statement.

“Summer meals ensure all children have consistent access to the nutrition they need to learn, play and grow — and this makes children be better prepared to start another school year.”

“Public libraries are neighborhood hubs, and the San Diego Public Library is proud to work with our partners to bring these much-needed food resources to the community,” said San Diego Public Library Director Misty Jones.

“SDPL meal sites will hold free programs, activities, storytimes and shows around lunchtime, nourishing children’s minds and bodies and providing vital information for their parents and caregivers.”

The program began Monday, June 10, and runs through Aug. 2. All children — not just SDUSD students — are eligible, and do not need to complete any egistration requirements or forms in order to qualify for meals.

The Feeding San Diego School Pantry Program will also offer fresh produce and pantry items at dozens of sites in partnership with school districts, recreation centers, and libraries across the county, according to the organization.

“Summer can be the hungriest time of year for families experiencing food insecurity,” said Bob Kamensky, CEO of Feeding San Diego. “Our summer meal programs aim to get nutritious food out into the community where it’s needed most.”

A complete list of summer meal locations and hours can be found here. Food distributions hosted by Feeding San Diego can be found here.

Additionally, a new state program will assist families buying food during the summer break. Families will receive $40 per month per eligible child under the SUN Bucks program to buy groceries for June, July and August. The funds come on a card mailed to a family’s home and can be used like a debit card to buy healthy food at grocery stores, farmers markets and other places that accept CalFresh EBT benefits.

The Summer Meals Program is funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture and run by school districts and local organizations.

City News Service contributed to this report.