Nutritional Development Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia kicked off its Summer Meals Program for the 13th straight year June 27 as Msgr. Daniel Sullivan led a blessing followed by lunch and games at St. Helena-Incarnation School in Philadelphia’s Olney section. Last year the program served approximately 385 sites in Philadelphia and many suburban neighborhoods and provided some 750,000 meals including breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner to children who otherwise would have struggled to eat nutritious food.

The Summer Meals Program runs from June 10 to Aug. 23. Children and families who benefit from the program this summer will also gain access to fresh food items at neighborhood produce stands along with nutrition information and healthy recipes, thanks to a partnership with NDS and the Catholic Charities Appeal — learn more about it here. (Photos by Sarah Webb)