USDA Extends Free Meals to Children through Summer 2021 Due to Pandemic

The USDA announced Tuesday that the free meal program for children will continue this summer when classes are done. The USDA is extending the waivers that allow all children to continue to receive meals through the end of September. USDA officials say the waivers to provide clarity and certainty to local program operators for the summer months ahead.  The waivers were previously extended only through June 30^th, 2021.

The waivers extended Tuesday allow for safe meal distribution sites that serve all children for free, regardless of income. The waivers also allow meals served through the Summer Food Service Program and Seamless Summer Option – collectively known as “summer meal programs” – to be made available in all areas at no cost.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekmedia.com