Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google

San Diego Unified Schools Transform into Meal and Nutrition Hubs for Summer

Schools in the San Diego Unified School District will join local YMCAs, military sites, public libraries, parks & recreation centers, and other neighborhood organizations as meal distribution centers this summer, providing access to healthy food for children and teens in need. The Summer Meal Program runs from June 10 through Aug. 2, offering free breakfast and lunch for anyone ages 18 and under, as well as nutrition education resources, activities, and food benefits to help families purchase groceries.   

"When school is out for summer break, a large number of kids lose access to the healthy meals they rely on during the school year," said San Diego Unified Food and Nutrition Services Director Alicia Pitrone Hauser, in a statement. "Summer meals ensure all children have consistent access to the nutrition they need to learn, play, and grow — and this makes children be better prepared to start another school year."

"Summer can be the hungriest time of year for families experiencing food insecurity," commented Bob Kamensky, CEO of nonprofit food distribution organization Feeding San Diego. "Our summer meal programs aim to get nutritious food out into the community where it's needed most. We rely on strong partnerships with schools, libraries, and rec centers — all fundamental gathering places for parents across the county — to ensure that parents have access to no-cost groceries and meals." 

The Summer Meals Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Children do not need to be San Diego Unified students to participate and there are no registration requirements or paperwork required.

For more information, visit the San Diego Unified site.

About the Author

Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • Nashville Elementary School Receives LEED Gold Certification

    Goodlettsville Elementary School, part of Metro Nashville Public Schools in Nashville, Tenn., recently achieved LEED Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), according to a news release. The 81,750-square-foot school opened in 2023 and was designed by Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC).

  • Year-Round Schools Require Year-Round Indoor Air Quality Planning

    While many schools are out for the summer, year-round schools follow a more “balanced” schedule with shorter, more frequent breaks spaced throughout the school year. Even though this offers educational benefits, these facilities have less downtime for building maintenance. This can become an issue when facilities managers overlook the importance of routine HVAC maintenance and air duct cleaning services.

  • UT-San Antonio Begins Residence Hall Renovations

    The University of Texas at San Antonio recently began a $6-million renovation project to one of its residence halls, according to a news release. Originally completed in 1986, Chisolm Hall measures in at 120,860 square feet and is the oldest and largest residence hall on campus.

  • Back-to-School Playground Safety: 7 Common Hazards to Look for After Summer Break

    As summer break comes to an end, school administrators have plenty to prepare before students return. While classrooms, hallways and common areas often receive attention during all the back-to-school preparations, the playground should not be overlooked. Months of weather exposure, storms, and regular wear can leave behind hazards that may not be immediately noticeable.