Out-of-School Time

Over 29,000 Vermont children rely on free or reduced price school meals. When schools close in June, many of these children lose their most important source of balanced nutrition. Studies indicate that low-income kids are more likely to gain weight and fall behind their peers academically during the summer months.

The federally funded Summer Nutrition Programs provide nutritious meals to low-income children ages 1 through 18 when school is not in session.

The Campaign helps community groups provide nutritious meals to low-income children during out-of-school time during the summer months and in afterschool programming.

Today 4,700 children access healthy meals and educational activities in 144 sites in Vermont. Sites are located at parks, schools, libraries and existing youth programs. Schools can use a special "seamless" program, which reduces administrative burden. Click here to download a map and full list of locations (.pdf) where children ages 18 and under can drop-in for a free meal.

Schools, non-profits or municipalities can sponsor a Summer Food Service Program, and receive reimbursement for meals served to eligible children.

Model Programs

The Burlington Parks and Recreation Department currently sponsors three sites: Riverside Avenue Apartments, Bobbin Mill, and Franklin Square Housing Development, serving a combined total of 213 children.

Over 700 Barre City children rely on free and reduced price meals during the summer months. Summer meal sites can be found at local churches, housing complexes, schools and recreation programs.

Middlebury’s Summer Lunch and Recreation Program now provides meals and activities to approximately 40 children each day. While Middlebury is often thought of as an affluent neighborhood, 174 elementary students were receiving free or reduced-price meals during the 2008-2009 school year.

NEW Supper Pilot

The At-Risk Afterschool Supper program is a pilot granted to 10 states, including Vermont. It provides funding through the Child and Adult Care Food Program to serve snacks or suppers to children 18 and under in low-income communities. It is important because:

If you are a food service professional, afterschool program coordinator, or school based staff member, fill out our simple inquiry form to determine the best afterschool meal program for your community. Your afterschool program may be eligible to receive federal funds to provide nutritious meals to the children you serve.

To learn more, download these informational brochures on the Afterschool Snack Program (.pdf) and Supper Program (.pdf), and contact Emily Glover, Nutrition Program & Policy Specialist, at .