To make healthy meals convenient, accessible, and free for children in our community, Great Bend USD 428 will provide free summer meals during the months of June and July with multiple pick-up locations.

Children age 0-18 years old can participate in the Summer Food Program. Each weekday, June 5–30, grab-and-go meal packages containing lunch and breakfast for the following day will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at all five elementary schools: Eisenhower, Jefferson, Lincoln, Park and Riley. 

July meals will begin after the 4th of July holiday week, operating on weekdays from July 10–28, with grab-and-go meal packages from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at three elementary schools, Eisenhower, Jefferson and Riley.

Kristy Alvord, food service and central kitchen director for USD 428, encourages all families to utilize the program this summer.

“This is a great opportunity,” Alvord said. “As parents, we are busy in the summer months. This is an easy, fast, and free meal package available to anyone 18 and under.

“This is also a great way to welcome younger children into a school building, teach them about school meals, and give them nutrition education while enjoying lunch. For the soon-to-be kindergartners, it will give them an idea of what to expect when they arrive at school in August.”

The Summer Food Service Program is funded by the United Stated Department of Agriculture. Each summer, USDA collaborates with local organizations like USD 428 to provide free meals to children when school is not in session. For over 25 years, USD 428 has provided this community service. 

Pick-up Permits have been approved by the USDA and will be issued this summer. Children must attend at the time the permit is issued. This allows parents/guardians to pick up future meal packages without their children present. The permit is only valid at the site where it is issued. 

Find more free meal sites

Families who are traveling this summer can utilize a convenient text service to find a free summer meal location near them. Simply text “Summer Meals” or “Verano” to 914-342-7744 to find a Free Meal Location in 31 states nationwide. Standard messaging rates may apply.

For more information about Great Bend meals, call the USD 428 Central Kitchen, 620-793-1540 or visit the website GreatBendSchools.net.