The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) is pleased to announce the locations of its summer food service program to meet the growing need to feed hungry children and families, and fill the nutritional gap over the summer months in Howard County. Running from June 26–August 4, the HCPSS Summer Food Service Program will be available Monday through Friday at four locations:
These locations were selected to provide convenient access to many students and families that are eligible for free or reduced-price meals. The schools are located in safe areas that avoid physical barriers to access, such as busy streets without crosswalks.
Meals will be provided to children 18 and under without charge. Acceptance and participation requirements for the program and all activities are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. Parents or guardians do not need to apply to get free summer meals for their children. They can simply bring their child to one of the summer meal sites.
The HCPSS summer food service program provided 50,703 meals during summer 2016, an increase from 35,417 in 2015 and 3,764 in 2014. The HCPSS Summer Food Service Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and is an extension of the National School Lunch Program, which is designed to guarantee eligible children free and nutritious breakfasts and lunches during the school year. Meals will follow USDA nutrition guidelines.
All meals will be served on a first-come, first-served basis and all meals must be eaten on site. No portion of the meal may be taken out of the meal serving area(s) and adults may not eat any portion of a child’s meal. Small children must have adult supervision.
For more information, contact the HCPSS Food and Nutrition Services at 410-313-6736.