Welcome back to our blog series, the No Kid Hungry New York Partner Spotlight. We’ll be speaking to our partners across the state, learning what’s new in their 2026 summer meals programs, and celebrating the tremendous work they do to ensure that more kids have access to the fuel they need to learn, grow and thrive. This week, we heard from Nicole Gugino at Springville-Griffith Institute Central School District.
Can you describe your community and school district? What do you love about where you live and work?
“Springville-Griffith Institute Central School District is a small rural district that provides big opportunities for our students. At SGI, we are a family with a common focus on students’ success in all aspects of life. “
What’s new in your summer meals program this year?
“New this year, SGI was able to add a second pick-up site at Colden Elementary thanks to a $5,000 grant from Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign! This has made a huge difference for the families in the northern portion of our district. “
What’s your favorite meal to serve? What menu items the kids love to eat?
“The SGI Culinary Staff are always learning new recipes and finding new and delicious ways to use fresh and local products in scratch cooking. A crowd favorite is our orange chicken bowls.”
If you could tell everyone in America something about free summer meals, what would you tell them?
“Students’ minds never stop growing, and growing minds and bodies need nutritious meals to flourish. At SGI, we are ensuring that our students receive the meals they need to grow and serving them with delicious, nutritious food made with love.”
What’s the best feedback you’ve gotten about the work you’ve done in your summer meals program?
“The most special ingredient in the meals we serve is love and our students and their families can tell.”
What are you most proud of regarding your summer meals program?
“We are proud to be able to serve even more students this year by expanding to a second site.”
At No Kid Hungry New York, we thank Nicole and the food service staff members at Springville-Griffith for their dedication and enthusiasm in feeding kids throughout the summer. We’re grateful to support their work and honored to shine a spotlight on their extraordinary program!
