Here’s where children can get free meals over the summer

During the school year, schools provide free breakfasts and lunches to hundreds of thousands of children in need.

To assure children don’t go hungry during the summer, the state has established more than 1,100 locations statewide where children can continue to get free meals.

Last year, more than 3.1 million meals were served at sites during the summer.

All children age 18 and younger can get the meals. There are no restrictions based on family income. There is no application process.

“Many low-income families depend on the free and reduced meals that are served during the school year,” said Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Diane Douglas. “No child in Arizona should suffer from food insecurity just because school is out of session.”

More online

To see a list of locations offering free lunches to children 18 and younger, go to

Meals for children are free. Some locations are also offering meals to adults at a low cost.

“There is a free lunch, and a free breakfast,” said Glendale Elementary School District Food and Nutrition Operations Specialists Gina Logan in a statement. “Our responsibility to our students doesn’t end when school lets out. Our summer meals program is a building block in the community for healthy, happy kids who are ready to learn.”

Dates and hours of operation vary by location.

There is an interactive map available at www.azhealthzone.org or text FOOD to 877877.