Collaborative Effort Aims to Serve Over 150,000 Meals to Children in Need
The City of Atlanta announced the launch of its annual Summer Food Program.
The initiative is a partnership between the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning’s Bright from the Start program which provides nutritious meals to children in low-income areas during the summer months.
To provide greater accessibility to families without transportation, the City’s Summer Food Program will continue the Mobile Feeding Program on Wheels. Meals are provided at eight City of Atlanta outdoor pools, four Atlanta-Fulton Public Libraries, and one splashpad.
The food program kicked off June 9 and ends July 25. Hours vary by location. The Atlanta-based program will serve lunch onsite to school-aged children up to age 18.
Enrolled Camp Best Friends participants are automatically eligible for free breakfast and lunch.
“Several families depend on APS for nutritious meals—sometimes the only one a young person will get that day. This program is critical so that the City can stand in the gap during Summer Break. Thank you to DPR, the State and everyone who makes this possible,” said Mayor Andre Dickens.
A complete list of providers can be found on the Department of Parks and Recreation’s website at https://www.atlantaga.gov/government/departments/department-parks-recreation/office-of-recreation/summer-food-program.
The federally funded collaboration between the City of Atlanta and Bright from the Start continues to serve as a valuable resource to communities where food insecurity and accessibility threaten well-being. This summer, the aim is to serve an average of 3,000 meals daily to Atlanta children, totaling over 150,000 meals by the end of summer.
“Food insecurity and income inequality is a real concern in Atlanta, we’re committed to stepping up for the community,” said DPR Commissioner Justin Cutler. “Our partnership with Bright from the Start continues to be a lifeline for families in Atlanta and this summer, we’re keeping our promise to serve nutritious meals to make sure our kids have the nourishment they need to grow, play, and thrive while school is out of session.”
Locating a City of Atlanta summer meal food site is simple. Parents or caregivers may call 404.546.3122 or go online and enter their zip code at http://www.decal.ga.gov/Nutrition/Search.aspx to find the nearest service provider.
For more information, contact Jamal Mitchell, Food Service Coordinator, at jammitchell@atlantaga.gov or 470.561.2180.
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