WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52) highlighted the kickoff of the Summer Food Service Program at locations throughout the 52nd Congressional District. The program, sponsored by the US Department of Agriculture, offers free meals to children as part of a nationwide effort to combat child hunger after the school year ends.

“Summer has arrived, and for many this means family, friends, and fun. However, for children from families who are struggling to make ends meet, this can mean going hungry in the absence of meals normally provided during the school day,” said Rep. Peters. “Our commitment to the health of at-risk children should not go on summer break. While these amazing resources are available throughout our community, the majority of parents do not know that free summer meals are available. I look forward to my San Diego office being a resource to both promote this program and help the children in our community pursue a happy healthy summer.”

More than twenty million children rely on reduced price or free school meals during the year, but only about three million are able to access similar food sources during the summer months. The Summer Food Service Program was created to help fill this nutritional gap and ease the financial burden felt by at-risk families. Facilitated by local school districts, nonprofit organizations, and charities, more than 20 summer meal sites will be opening in the 52nd Congressional District to provide family-friendly activities and meals for children now that school is out. These free programs are open to children under the age of 18. Children do not need to provide proof of family income to participate.

For information on The Summer Food Service Program or to find the date, time, and address for the summer meal site nearest you, dial 2-1-1 or visit http://211sandiego.com/summerlunch. For the date, time, and address of programs facilitated by the San Diego Unified School District, visit http://www.sandi.net/Page/38399.