Salem-Keizer school district will offer free breakfast and lunch at several sites this summer from June 17 until August 27.
Every year, many kids in the Salem-Keizer school district rely on the free lunches provided at school. When the school year is over, many kids who get lunch and breakfast at their school do not know where they are going to get their meals from. To help with this, Salem Keizer school district provides free meals over the summer for students who need it.
“Summer meal programs offer meals to anyone 18 years old and younger. Last summer we served 74,000 meals over a ten week period. Based on the number of students in the Salem-Keizer school district that rely on school meals during the school year, I believe it is critical that students have access to food during the summer,” Food Service Director Mac Lary said. “During the past school year, an average number of lunches served per day was 23,000. Daily average of breakfast served was 8,325.”
These programs are made to benefit students from low income families. They provide meal stability and make sure that the district’s students, who cannot easily afford food, continue to eat when school is out.
“I think it’s really important that kids have access to free lunches, […] it’s an opportunity that’s given to them in a safe environment so they don’t have to feel ashamed for needing [free meals],” Emily Hargis ‘21 said.
There are also many other resources for summer meals in Salem.
“Marion County and Salem, Oregon food banks can help the low income and needy across the area. There are pantries located at charities, non-profits, and churches. Based on donations available, the centers can provide help to those who need it,” Lary said. “The programs and assistance provided range from free food, groceries, and meals, up through clothing. Many non-profits also help families living in or near poverty apply for public aid, including food stamps or WIC vouchers.”
More details about district provided summer meals will be posted later on the Salem-Keizer school district website.
