Free snacks and lunches will be available to all kids at 46 Los Angeles County parks this summer starting Monday as a part of the 2022 Summer Food Service Program.
Through the program, children under the age of 18 will be provided lunches and snacks that include vegetables, fruits, string cheese, yogurt, and more.
The program is a partnership between the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the California Department of Education, the LA County Board of Supervisors, and the county's Department of Public Health.
Los Angeles County director of parks and recreation Norma Garcia-Gonzalez shared that many kids struggle when they are out of school to have nutritious lunches, and this program looks to solve that issue.
"Food insecurity can have significant negative impacts on the healthy development of children and can increase the risks for depression and other mental health conditions among adolescents," Garcia-Gonzalez told ABC7.
Now the program will look to reduce the growing percentage of young people in the United States who do not consistently receive wholesome meals and those challenged by obesity, offering a healthy alternative to students when school is out.
"Ensuring the consistent delivery of out-of-school-time lunch and snack programs through our department's summer recreation programs and activities will expand access to nutritious food," Garcia-Gonzalez shared with the station. "Access to nutritious food partnered with quality out-of-school-time activities is especially needed for many families during this time of economic stress."
The program will run weekdays through Aug. 5, excluding June 20 and July 4, and is available to all kids. Lunch will be served from noon to 1 p.m. and snacks from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at participating parks.
To find a park that is participating in the program, visit LA County's website here.
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