RI's Grab-And-Go School Meal Program Extended Through 2020

PROVIDENCE, RI — The Rhode Island's Department of Education's summer meal program has been extended to the end of the year. Grab-and-go meals, both breakfast and lunch, will be available to everyone aged 18 and under.

"We owe it to our young people to do all we can to support their physical and academic well-being, especially as we deal with this unprecedented public health challenge," said Angélica Infante-Green, the commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education. "Extending the Summer Food Service Program will ensure that students across Rhode Island have continuing access to nutritious meals and families have one fewer worry on their list."

The Summer Food Service Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service, which usually provides free meals to certain communities, and helps support nonprofit food programs for youth during the summer months.

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, many schools have adopted or extended their summer meal programs, offering meal to students whether they're open for in-person learning or not. Both partial and fully in-person learners can pick up meals at their school or a designated pickup location. In many districts, pickup locations have been set up for at-home learners, as well.

Grab-and-go sites have been set up across the state. Parents can bring their child to any location, regardless of where they live. A full list is available here.

Families are encouraged to call their school district for more information about their local program. For more information about the program, call the Department of Education's Office of Statewide Efficiencies at 401-222-4253.