As the school year winds down, Great Bend USD 428 is proud to announce the return of its Summer Meal Program, offering free meals to all area children 18 years of age and younger. The program will run on weekdays, May 27 through July 25, with the exception of July 3 and 4 for the holiday.

Meals will be served at three Great Bend elementary schools – Eisenhower, Jefferson, and Riley – from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each child will receive a grab-and-go lunch and breakfast that can be enjoyed on-site or taken home.

Families will be issued a permit to pick up the meal packages. As a convenience, permits can be obtained in advance at the USD 428 Central Kitchen, located at 625 E 10th St., on May 19, 20 and 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Starting May 27, permits will be available at each participating school site. Children must accompany the adults at the time the permit is issued.

“We encourage all families to take advantage of this convenient and nutritious program,” said Kristy Alvord, USD 428 Food Service director. “No income guidelines apply, and meals are available to all children up to 18 years old, not just those enrolled in USD 428. It’s a great way to support healthy habits and ease the burden of summer meal planning.”

This program is underwritten by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and aims to ensure all children have access to nutritious meals even when school is not in session. More information about the Summer Meal Program, including permit details and guidelines for childcare providers, can be found on the website at GreatBendSchoolMeals.com or by calling 620-793-1540. USD 428 is an equal opportunity provider.