(The Center Square) – The Summer Food Service Program started its food service for the 2024 service term this month at over 600 locations in New Mexico.
The program, administered by The Early Childhood Education and Care Department, aims to tackle food security for children aged one to 18 during the summer months.
Through the end of August, the SFSP will provide meals to students who are on summer break. The state provides these free meals on a first-come, first-served basis. No one needs to register or enroll to participate.
“We invite every New Mexican family to take advantage of this incredible program,” ECECD Cabinet Secretary Elizabeth Groginsky said in a statement. “The Summer Food Service Program is free for all New Mexicans, regardless of income and an easy way for families to ensure their children have nutritious meals during the busy summer months. With over 600 meal sites statewide, you are sure to find a location convenient to you.”
Before New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed the Healthy Hunger-Free Students Bill of Rights Act in 2023, over 70% of New Mexico’s public school students qualified for free or reduced-price meals. The bill established universal free school lunches for all New Mexico school children.
Every child in the state who is at least one year old can receive free meals through this program. Those over 18 years old with a mental or physical disability who participate in a public or private non-profit school program for disabled children can also receive free meals through the SFSP.
“The free Summer Food Service Program fills a critical nutrition gap for many children during summer months when school cafeterias are closed,” the release said.
The SFSP receives its funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The ECECD administers the program.
To find a free meal site near you, visit summerfoodnm.org or call 1-800-EAT-COOL (1-800-328-2665).
