The state Department of Education has announced that 17 public schools on the Big Island will serve meals free of charge over the summer to children ages 18 and younger — regardless of public school enrollment status — through its summer food service program.
Beginning Monday, June 10, the Seamless Summer Option program will serve meals at select schools Monday through Friday, excluding state-observed holidays on June 11 (King Kamehameha Day) and July 4 (Independence Day).
Breakfasts will be served from 7:15 to 8:45 a.m. and lunches from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon.
SSO is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and was established to ensure that children continue to receive nutritious meals during the summer.
“Consistent nutrition is vital to growing children during the summer break when they may not be in school to receive meals,” said DOE Superintendent Keith Hayashi. “We encourage all of our families to make these free meals part of their children’s summer schedules to maintain their healthy development. We are grateful to our participating schools and dedicated cafeteria staff for giving all keiki the opportunity to receive balanced, nutritious meals.”
Schools may opt to serve breakfast only, lunch only, or both meals.
Parents may view detailed serving locations and times at https://tinyurl.com/bddmf35y or can call their nearest participating school directly for details.
Summer meals are offered for on-campus dining only. There is no grab-and-go option.
Children do not have to be enrolled at a participating school to be served, and meals will consist of solid foods.
For special diet accommodations, please email specialdiets@k12.hi.us with as much detail as possible.
Schools eligible to offer the SSO program must have 50% or more of its regularly enrolled students qualify for free or reduced-price lunches and some type of summer program on campus.