ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Families in Washtenaw County who rely on free or reduced-cost meals during the school year won’t have to worry about their children being hungry this summer thanks to a free meal program by Food Gatherers.
The Summer Food Service Program will offer teens and children free food at several locations between June 17 and August 16.
“We hope that by offering a variety of meal and grocery options, we can help more children and families get the nutrition they need to have a fun, healthy summer,” said Food Gatherers Community Food Programs Manager LeRonica Roberts. “We encourage families to visit the program that works best for them, as often as they need to.”
Families can receive free meals in three ways:
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Eat and Play – Children visiting Eat and Play sites around Washtenaw Couny must eat their meals onsite and can play games or do activities
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Grab and Go – Families can pick up to-go meals without children present and can pick up meals on behalf of others.
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Mini Grocery Pickup – Participants can pick up pre-packed boxes of groceries to take home.
Participants are encouraged to choose the way that best fits their needs.
Meals are available to children up to age 18 regardless of school district. Anyone up to age 26 who is enrolled in a state-recognized education program or local public educational agency can also pick up meals.
Meal schedules in different languages and a map of locations can be found online here, or by calling Food Gatherers at 734-761-2796, or by texting FOOD or COMIDA to 304-304.
Families in need of summertime food can also check with their local school district to see about meal programs for enrolled students. Parents can also inquire about the summertime federal Sun Bucks program, which provides $120 in food benefits families with school-age children who qualify.
The summer program is supported by the Michigan Department of Education, Toyota Research & Development, Kroger, and the Rotary Club of Ann Arbor.
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Check with your school about school meals: Many school districts offer a summer meal program for enrolled students. Contact your school district for more information.
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Find local food distributions: Food Gatherers has a network of partner food pantries and meal programs that is open year-round to anyone in need. For a directory of free food distributions in Washtenaw County, visit Food Gatherers’ Find Food page or call 734- 761-2796. For help finding resources outside of Washtenaw County, call 2-1-1 or go
to mi211.org. About Food Gatherers
Food Gatherers’ mission is to alleviate hunger and eliminate its root causes in Washtenaw County. Last year, our food bank and food rescue program distributed 7.8 million pounds of food to more than 140 non-profit programs serving adults, seniors, and children. For a list of our partner programs or to learn how you can become involved in the fight against hunger locally, please visit www.foodgatherers.org or call 734-761-2796.
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