MSDE Offers Free Summer Meals to Youth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

MEDIA CONTACT:  
Raven Hill, 410-767-0486  
raven.hill@maryland.gov  
 

MSDE Offers Free Summer Meals to Youth

Schools, libraries and recreation centers are among the locations offering breakfast and lunch. 

BALTIMORE, MD (July 12, 2024) – The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is offering free meals this summer at sites statewide for youth under age 18. 

This USDA federally funded program, along with local sponsoring agencies, ensures that students in Maryland receive the necessary nutrition during the summer months. Over 500,000 students statewide qualify for the summer meals program.  

“Many families rely on the National School Lunch Program to provide healthy and nutritious meals,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “Programs that provide free meals for Maryland families when school is not in session ensure that students remain ready to learn all year long.” 

Free meals or snacks are served at participating sites; no ID is required. 800 sites across the state provide meal service in-person and to-go, depending on the site and location. Service days and times vary depending on the location.

Agencies sponsoring residential camps, closed enrolled sites (such as summer day camps), and pickup meal sites will notify participants about the availability of free meals and whether a free meal application is needed.

For more information about federal child nutrition programs, contact the MSDE Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs at 410-767-0219 or visit eatsmartmaryland.org. 

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
View the USDA Nondiscrimination Statement

###