Free summer meal program returns to St. Paul with food trucks and more than 50 sites
- Rebecca Gilbuena
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
Children and teens in St. Paul can once again receive free meals this summer through Saint Paul Public Schools' (SPPS) annual Summer Meals Program, which offers breakfast and lunch at more than 50 locations across the city.
The program is open to all children 18 and younger, as well as people with disabilities who are currently enrolled in a school program. Meals are available at participating schools, recreation centers, libraries and community sites. The district's popular food truck is also back, serving burgers, rice bowls, nachos and other kid-friendly meals at parks and community centers through Aug. 21.
"Summer should be a time for kids to explore, grow and recharge — and dependable access to nourishing meals makes that possible," said Stacy Koppen, director of Nutrition Services for Saint Paul Public Schools. "We're proud to support families by serving meals that fuel learning, play and well-being all summer long."
For many families, the program offers more than just food.
"It helps in so many ways because it helps us keep a routine," said one St. Paul mother who has been bringing her children to the food truck for several years. "It helps expose the kids to different types of food, and it's something to look forward to."
She said the program also stands out because it's easy to access.
"I feel like the people serving the food aren't judging you," she said. "It's just nice to have some support that you don't have to jump through hoops to get."
Find a full list of locations and schedules on the Saint Paul Public School’s website.
