When school's out for the summer, many children who rely on school meals face a nutritional gap. Recognizing this challenge, the City of Seattle's Human Services Department has stepped up to ensure that no child in the city goes hungry during the summer months.  

  The Summer Meals Program, a vital initiative now in its 14th year, provides free, nutritious meals to youth aged 18 and under at various locations throughout Seattle. This program is a lifeline for many families, offering a reliable source of healthy food when school meals are unavailable.  

 The program's success is due in part to its accessibility. There are no sign-ups or eligibility requirements; any child can simply show up at a participating location and receive a free meal. This eliminates barriers and ensures that all children, regardless of their background, can benefit from the program.  

The Summer Food Program also plays a crucial role in fostering community. Many meal sites offer activities and enrichment programs, creating a safe and welcoming space for children to socialize and learn during the summer break. This not only addresses nutritional needs but also supports children's overall well-being.  

This summer, the program aims to serve an estimated 120,000 meals at over 100 locations across Seattle. The meals are prepared by dedicated staff and volunteers who are committed to providing children with healthy and delicious food options.  

If you know a child or family who could benefit from the Summer Food Program, please help spread the word. The City of Seattle's website has a list of participating locations and meal times. Together, we can ensure that every child in Seattle has a happy, healthy, and hunger-free summer.

This segment was first aired on Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle. See past episodes and segments at whereweconverge.com/back2besa and on the FOX Local app. Learn how to download app here bit.ly/watchfoxlocal