Posted July 2, 2019

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)

  • Quadir Crawford follows the blessing program.

  • Four campers lead the others in prayer.

  • Brooke Mullen of Nutritional Development Services holds baskets of bracelets that Msgr. Daniel Sullivan blesses before they are distributed to the children at the event.

  • Brook Mullen hands out “A Summer of Kindness” bracelets to the children.

  • Carmelo Arzuaga receives his lunch provided by NDS.

  • Brothers Eric and Ricky Dong check out the good food in their lunchboxes provided by NDS.

  • Camren McNeir

  • Devin Teagle

  • Journey Curley, Journee Thomas and Kiyomi Jackson show off their “Summer of Kindness” bracelets.

  • Noah Tramel

  • Michiyah Henry enjoys her whole grain chicken nuggets and milk.

  • Madison Smith