City of Seattle’s free Summer Meals Program opens July 1st

The Seattle Human Services Department’s popular Summer Food Service Program—also known as Summer Meals Program—opens Monday, July 1st, at 70 sites across the city. The program offers children and teens aged 1–18 free, healthy breakfasts, lunches, and snacks during the summer months. Each participant can receive up to two meals or one meal and one snack per day, to be eaten onsite. 

“This program supports children and youth who are enrolled in summer programs across Seattle, and others who may not receive adequate nutrition at home,” said Dr. Shukri Olow, director of the Human Services Department’s Youth and Family Empowerment Division. “Our program helps fill the gap when school is not in session. This year, we expect to provide more than 100,000 meals and almost as many snacks.” 

The Summer Food Service Program, established in the late 1960s, is federally funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and administered by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) in Washington State. 

The program is expected to operate through August 23, 2024. 

All Seattle residents regardless of immigration status are eligible for City of Seattle programs and services unless noted otherwise. 

For information about specific sites, see our 2024 Summer Food Service Program site map  or e-mail SFSP@seattle.gov.