Press Contact:
Laura Brooks
lbrooks@godspantry.org
606-584-4572
Lexington, KY – As schools let out for summer, thousands of children in Central and Eastern Kentucky lose access to the free or reduced-price meals they rely on during the academic year. To bridge this nutritional gap, God’s Pantry Food Bank announces the opening of 30 Summer Feeding sites in partnership with local libraries, churches, apartment complexes, and community centers.
These sites offer free meals and snacks to all children and teens aged 18 and under, ensuring that no child goes hungry during the summer months. In addition to nutritious food, children are invited to take part in engaging activities that support learning, creativity, and community connection.
“Our summer meal sites are safe, welcoming spaces where kids can eat, play, and grow,” said Michael Halligan, CEO of God’s Pantry Food Bank. “With the support of community partners and volunteers, we’re working to ensure children across Central and Eastern Kentucky have access to the nutrition they need to thrive.”
God’s Pantry Food Bank encourages families to explore additional food resources available this summer:
Kentucky Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (SEBT)
SEBT is a federal child nutrition program that provides summer food benefits to eligible families.
- Automatically provided to school-aged children (ages 6–18 as of August 1, 2024) who have participated in SNAP, KTAP, or Kinship Care since July 1, 2024.
- Families who do not qualify automatically but meet income requirements can apply online to determine Summer 2025 eligibility.
SUN Meals
Funded by the USDA, SUN Meals are available free of charge to all children 18 and under and are served at schools, parks, and other local gathering places. No application is needed to receive SUN Meals. In rural areas, SUN Meals To-Go options are now available.
Families can find meal locations, learn about benefits, and access resources at: godspantry.org/get-help/childrens-programs
About God’s Pantry Foodbank:
1 in 6 people in Kentucky do not know when they will receive their next meal – in Central and Eastern Kentucky, it is 1 in 5. We empower more than 500 food pantries and meal programs across Central and Eastern Kentucky. Our vision: A nourished life for every Kentuckian. Our mission: Reducing hunger by working together to feed Kentucky communities. Visit godspantry.org to learn more.
