Free summer meals available for Nebraska children

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) — Children across Nebraska can get free meals during the summer months through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Summer Food Service Program.

The Olinger family is one of many families getting free meals while school is out. Mikayla Olinger said the program helps save money on groceries.

“It helps a lot,” Olinger said. “Oh yes, especially with the three boys and now my daughter is starting to eat big food.”

Oscar Garcia, director of food service at West Lawn Elementary, said the community struggles with food insecurity.

“Some kids don’t know where their next meal is coming from, that’s why it’s important we meet the need in our community,” Garcia said.

The program also provides a place for children to learn new skills. One parent said it teaches children how to use a cafeteria so they are prepared when they go for the first time.

“The bonus to that is that sometimes they may run into their classmates they haven’t seen in a couple of months,” Garcia said.

Another parent said the program keeps children active.

Garcia said he has a goal for 16,000 meals to be served this year. Meals are available for any child whether they are in the school district or not.

Meal locations and dates

Free summer breakfast and lunch will be available at the following locations:

• Dodge Elementary — June 2-July 17
• Howard Elementary — June 2-June 26
• Shoemaker Elementary — June 1-June 26
• Starr Elementary — June 1-July 17
• West Lawn Elementary — June 1-July 17
• Grand Island Senior High — June 2-June 27 (breakfast only)

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