Kids Eat Free This Summer!

- June 4, 2019 -

WORDS: Jessica Anderson

With summer upon us, Manatee County Schools Food and Nutrition Services is again preparing to feed students across the county. For the last 12 years, the Summer BreakSpot program has been helping provide nourishment to local children during the long summer months.  

This program provides free meals for kids at multiple locations starting on June 3rd. Last year, over 205,000 meals were served at 59 sites between the months of June and August.

The Summer BreakSpot program is part of a USDA program where free meals are offered to all children who are 18 or younger, providing them a free breakfast, lunch, and/or snack, five days a week. This service is not based on income status.

The program was designed to ensure that children have access to nutrition during the summer, giving them the opportunity to return to school healthy, happy, and ready to learn. Manatee County School District General Funds are not used for this program.

Meals will be delivered to local sites such as summer camps, community centers, and churches. Meals will also be delivered by two mobile feeding buses and a “Caboose” food trailer (provided by Tropicana), to multiple locations such as apartment complexes, local parks, and the City Stop in downtown Bradenton.

Both buses have indoor and outdoor seating for kids to enjoy their meal in the comfort of air conditioning or in the shade of an awning. It is a great opportunity for kids to get outside for some sunshine, socializing, and a healthy meal.

The Summer BreakSpot menu includes sandwiches, burgers, wraps, fresh fruit, vegetables, and low-fat milk. Manatee County Schools Food and Nutrition Service will also be providing free meals to students in summer school programs. Hot meals will be served in summer school sites and will include items like chicken tenders, nachos, cheeseburgers, and pizza.

Find the nearest Summer BreakSpot location:

CALL: 211

VISIT: SummerFoodFlorida.org

For more information about the Summer BreakSpot contact Food & Nutrition Services Office at 941-739-5700 or visit www.manateeschoolfood.net

  • About Manatee County Schools Food & Nutrition Services: As a U.S. Department of Agriculture supported program the mission of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) is to provide quality nutritious meals for student to learn and succeed. FNS serves over five million student lunches and breakfasts each year and provides service to over 80% of the student population.

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