Iowa begins its summer meal programs

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – With some schools already on summer break, programs are helping make sure Iowa kids don’t go hungry.

The state’s Seamless Summer Option program provides free meals to children and teens 18 and younger during summer break.

Those meals are served at schools, parks and community centers. Children are served on first come, first served basis.

You can find a full list of those on the USDA’s Summer Meal Finder.

This year, the state has returned to the federal SUN Bucks program.

Eligible families can get up to $120 per child. That is then divided up to $40 a month to help pay for healthy food purchases.

The Des Moines Area Religious Council told KCRG after the state announced its return to the program that area businesses, as well as those in need, would benefit.

“Those dollars are going to go back into local grocery stores. It’s an investment in our community. When we look at feeding programs like SNAP, we know that it has that multiplier effect every time a dollar is spent, you’re getting more out of it,” said Blake Wiladsen, the council’s communication manager.

The state will regulate the program similarly to the state’s SNAP program. Things like candy, soda, vitamins, minerals, pre-made foods, and juice made with less than 50% fruit or vegetables cannot be purchased with Iowa SUN Bucks.