PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Governor Dan McKee and the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) today announced that the Summer Food Service Program is now underway at close to 80 program sites in 14 communities, where free meals will be served to Rhode Island students this summer.

“No child in Rhode Island should go hungry,” said Governor Dan McKee. “The Summer Food Service Program provides families easy access to free, nutritious meals during the school break to help children continue to grow and thrive. We invite families to take advantage of the program by visiting one of the many sites across Rhode Island.”

Meals provided through the summer program are free for all children ages 18 and under, with no eligibility criteria, no forms for families to fill out, and no proof of residency or address required. Families can find their closest summer meals site by calling 2-1-1.

“Rhode Island’s summer meals program serves as a lifeline for students in need who rely on school meals during the school year as source of nutrition,” said Council on Elementary and Secondary Education Chair Patti DiCenso. “We want every child to reach their highest potential, and that means making sure they don’t have to worry about how they will get their next meal. We look forward to seeing children having fun, building friendships, and enjoying a healthy meal at dozens of sites throughout the state.”

“Hunger does not take a break during the summer, so it is our duty to make sure kids have access to healthy meals that fuel their development and growth while school is out,” said Commissioner of Education Angélica Infante-Green. “The Summer Food Service Program is important because good nutrition positively impacts students’ thinking skills, behavior, and health. We’re proud to collaborate with partners across the state to fight hunger and support our students.”

Last summer, the Summer Food Service Program which allows students to stay well-fed throughout the school break served over 570,000 meals. In 2019, during a traditional summer the program served close to 372,000.

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