Get Free Meals For Manatee County Kids This Summer

BRADENTON, FL — Manatee County families struggling to feed their kids over the summer will find help is available. Manatee County Schools’ Summer BreakSpot program is getting ready to start serving up free meals for kids.

“The Summer BreakSpot program is part of a USDA program where free meals are offered to all children who are 18 or younger and provides children a free breakfast, lunch and/or snack 5 days a week,” Manatee County Schools explained in an email announcing the start of this year’s program. “This service is not based on income status, and all kids and teens who are 18 and younger will be able to participate.”

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The program, which does not rely on Manatee County School District general funds, is meant to ensure kids receive meals when classes are not in session.

The program served up more than 1 million meals to kids, the district noted. It also operates during Spring Break.

In addition to sites, such as local Boys & Girls Clubs, the county plans to use two mobile feeding buses for this year’s program. “Both buses have indoor and outdoor seating for kids to enjoy their meal in comfort of air conditioning or in the shade of an awning,” the district said.

While menus will vary, the district said BreakSpot meals will include such things as wraps, whole grain hoagies, burgers, pizza and fresh fruit and vegetables. Low-fat milk will also be offered. “Watermelon Wednesdays” are being added this year. Each Wednesday, kids will be offered “Fresh from Florida” watermelons.

To find a site for kids to get breakfast or lunch, visit the Summer BreakSpot website. The program is operating in counties throughout the state in partnership with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

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