Summer Eats | West Suburban YMCA

West Suburban YMCA partners with Bentley University to provide free meals for children all summer long

Jul 03, 2019

The West Suburban YMCA and Bentley University are participating in the federally-funded Summer Food Service Program, known in Massachusetts as Summer Eats, to provide free meals to children ages 18 and under when school is not in session. Meals are available at the Y Monday through Friday from 11:30am–1:00pm (lunch) and 2:30–3:30pm (snack) through August 16. No registration or I.D. required.

According to the USDA, nearly 10% of Massachusetts households experience food insecurity. During the school year, many families stretch their food budget by applying for free or reduced-price school meals for their children. Frequently, these families find it difficult to absorb the additional meal costs when school is not in session. Summer Eats helps to fill the gap left open during the summer months for these families. When children have reliable access to food during the summer, they can return to school ready to learn. These children may be at risk for hunger and malnutrition, and they will return to school in September at a disadvantage relative to their peers. By providing free, nutritious meals throughout the summer, Summer Eats ensures that every child has access to the food they need to succeed.

For more information, contact Keri Wood at keriw@wsymca.org or 617-244-6050 x3118.