Free summer meal sites are open

South Philly’s Vare Recreation Center was certainly a hot spot as the city celebrated the opening of summer and the start of its summer meals program. 

Vare Rec Center, located a 26th and Moore streets, was the scene of an afternoon of family-friendly fun on June 18, hosted by the city’s Office of Children and Families, Parks & Recreation and American Dairy Association North East.

There were resource tables, music, activities, special appearances, and a nutritious lunch served to youth.

“Every child in Philadelphia deserves access to healthy meals — especially during the summer months when school is out,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker. “This program is one of many ways we show our young people that this city sees them, values them and is committed to their well-being, every single day.”

The city will offer more than 500 free summer meal sites to children and teens across Philadelphia during the hottest months of the year.

“Access to food is a basic need, and meeting that need is foundational to a child’s ability to learn, grow and thrive,” said Vanessa Garrett Harley, Chief Deputy Mayor for Social Impact and Strategic Initiatives. “The Summer Meals program ensures our young people are nourished and supported, no matter where they live or what their circumstances may be.”

Most sites have already started serving summer meals.

A full list and interactive map of student meal sites for summer, pantries, meal sites and older adult meal sites can be found at phila.gov/food.

“When students are out of school for summer, they may lose that consistent access to nutritious meals,” said Tony B. Watlington Sr., superintendent for the School District of Philadelphia. “We’re proud to have served more than 295,000 meals last summer, and we are grateful to our partners who collectively support our families and provide access to meals across the city.”

All children and youth up to age 18 in Philadelphia are eligible.

No student ID, proof of citizenship or registration is required.

Meal site days and times vary by site.

Meals must be eaten on-site due to USDA regulations. 

Most summer meals are funded through the USDA’s Summer Food Services Program.

“Our summer camps and recreation centers are like a second home for many Philadelphia children,” said Susan Slawson, commissioner of Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. “They are places where kids can count on a healthy meal, stay active, learn new things and build lasting friendships in a welcoming and supportive environment. This work reflects the spirit of One Philly — all of us working together for the betterment of our youth.”

Partnering for the summer meals program are the Nutritional Development Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the School District of Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Housing Authority and other local and federal agencies.

“The Summer Meals Program not only prevents hunger and provides nutrition, but it also brings hope to children, their families and the whole community,” said David Stier, Assistant Director for Community Relations, Nutritional Development Services of the Archdiocese. “Nutritional Development Services is honored to support this program alongside the other summer meal sponsors and is eager to provide free meals to children in the five-county Philadelphia area.”