Salina Public Schools (USD 305) has announced its Summer Food Program schedule, running from June 1 to June 30. It will be closed on June 19.
This program offers free meals—breakfast and lunch—to all children aged 1 to 18, with no registration or paperwork required. For adults, breakfast costs $3.50 and lunch is $5.75.
Each lunchtime, starting at 12:15 PM, kids can enjoy activities led by Salina Educators and the Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland. There will also be free book giveaways, thanks to the Salina Area United Way.
For detailed menus and more information, visit the district’s website at www.usd305.com and click on the Summer Food Program banner.
Here’s a quick look at the meal schedule:
Breakfast:
- South High School: 7:45 AM – 8:15 AM
- Cottonwood Elementary: 7:45 AM – 8:15 AM
- Heusner Elementary: 7:45 AM – 8:15 AM
Lunch:
- South High School: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Cottonwood Elementary: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
- Heartland Early Education: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
- Heusner Elementary: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
- Salina Fieldhouse: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
This initiative not only fills stomachs but also aims to promote literacy by providing free books. Research shows that reading can significantly boost a child’s academic performance, making these giveaways valuable. In recent years, similar programs across the U.S. have reported increases in meal participation, indicating a growing recognition of the importance of nutrition during the summer months.
According to the USDA, 1 in 6 children in the U.S. face food insecurity. Programs like this are crucial for ensuring that all kids have access to healthy meals when school is out. By engaging local organizations, USD 305 fosters a sense of community and collaboration that benefits everyone.
For families looking for options, this program stands out. It combines nutrition, education, and fun, making summer better for all children involved.
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