Catholic Charities of Philadelphia’s Nutritional Development Services joined the American Dairy Association North East and the City of Philadelphia’s Office of Children and Families and Parks and Recreation Department June 18 to celebrate the commencement of the 2025 Summer Meals Program.
The outdoor event at Vare Recreation Center in South Philadelphia included a resource fair, music, and activities for local children and youth.
“The Summer Meals Program not only prevents hunger and provides nutrition, but it also brings hope to children, their families, and the whole community,” said David Stier, Assistant Director for Community Relations for NDS. “Nutritional Development Services is honored to support this program alongside the other summer meal sponsors and is eager to provide free meals to children in the five-county Philadelphia area.”
There are over 500 sites across Philadelphia this summer offering free healthy meals to children and youth aged 18 or younger while school is out of session.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker also attended the celebration.
“Every child in Philadelphia deserves access to healthy meals—especially during the summer months when school is out,” said Mayor Parker. “This program is one of many ways we show our young people that this city sees them, values them, and is committed to their well-being, every single day.”
Summer meals are funded through the USDA’s Summer Food Services Program.
Meals are delivered fresh daily, ready to eat with no preparation needed. Summer Meals sites serve both breakfast and lunch, featuring whole grains, low-fat milk, protein-rich options, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. All meals meet federal nutrition guidelines, with lunches providing one-third of children’s daily nutritional needs.
Those interested in still enrolling can call the Summer Meals Hotline at 215-895-3470, option 1. For more details, visit here.
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