Although most area schools are finished with classes for the summer, several are remaining open to provide food to their students. Earlier this week, the Iowa Department of Education released the location of the summer food program sites throughout the state.

There are nearly 500 sites across Iowa with summer food programs, including some in Washington, Columbus Junction, Winfield, Wapello, and Fairfield. The goal is to ensure that low-income students who rely on free or reduced-price meals during the school year still have access to nutritious meals and snacks during the summer months. The sites include schools, churches, community centers, parks, libraries, housing complexes, and camps and offer free meals to students 18 and under.

The Summer Food Service Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and administered by the Iowa Department of Education. Parents or guardians seeking a summer meal program near them can text “Food” or “Comida” to 304-304. They can also dial 211. For English, call 866-3-HUNGRY (866-348-6479). For Spanish, call 877-8-HAMBRE (877-842-6273). To find sites in your area online, click here.