Summer break means fun in the sun for kids — but for many families in Virginia, it can also mean fewer meals available, especially for kids who count on school breakfast and lunch. That’s why summer meals and SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) are so important.
Summer Meals
During the summer months, kids and teens 18 and under can still access healthy meals at no cost. Summer meals are served at community locations across Virginia, including schools, parks, libraries, and churches.
This year, more rural communities are offering non-congregate summer meals. That means families can pick up meals to-go without needing to stay and eat on site. It’s a flexible option designed to reach kids in areas where transportation and access may be a challenge. Whether it’s a drive-thru pickup, meal boxes, or delivery in some cases, non-congregate options help ensure more kids get the food they need all summer long.
How to Find Free Summer Meals Near You
There are a few easy ways to find free summer meals for kids and teens in your community. Start by visiting NoKidHungry.org/Help for information and resources. You can also use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder, an interactive map that’s updated regularly with nearby locations. If you prefer to talk to someone, call the National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY (1-866-348-6479) for assistance in multiple languages.
SUN Bucks
SUN Bucks is grocery support that helps families buy food for their children over the summer. Eligible families receive $120 per child to help stretch their grocery budget while school is out. Most families will get these benefits automatically, but some may need to apply. Learn more at VirginiaSUNBucks.com.
Together, SUN Bucks and summer meals work hand-in-hand to provide even more support to families, helping ensure children have access to the food they need all summer long whether it’s through healthy grab-and-go meals or groceries at home.
Help Spread the Word
No child should go hungry just because school is out. Help us make sure families across Virginia know where to find the food and support they need this summer. Share this blog with your network and check out No Kid Hungry Center for Best Practices’ summer meals outreach toolkit for more resources.
