The YMCA (the Y) is dedicated to addressing child hunger in communities throughout the year, including the summer months when access to nutritious food may be limited for kids and teens. They combat this issue through their Summer Food Program.

The hunger crisis in America has worsened due to economic uncertainty following two years of the pandemic and increasing food costs. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), 12 million children under 18, along with a total of 38 million people, live in households with food insecurity. This means that 1 in 6 children are uncertain about their next meal.

During the school year, more than 30 million kids benefit from free or reduced-price meals provided by the National School Lunch Program. However, only 14 percent (1 in 7 eligible kids) have access to free meals during the summer, as reported by the USDA. This lack of access to nutritious food during the summer negatively affects children’s physical health, academic growth, and mental well-being.

To bridge this gap, the Y’s Summer Food Program offers meals at over 2,500 locations nationwide. Since 2011, the program has served over 100,000,000 meals as part of its year-round efforts to combat child hunger. It not only provides nutritious meals and snacks but also incorporates engaging learning activities to promote a healthy, active, and well-nourished summer for kids and teens. Additionally, the Y’s Afterschool Meal Program combines learning activities with healthy meals and snacks for children and teenagers at the end of the school day.

The Y is committed to integrating healthy eating and physical activity into early childcare and afterschool programs as part of their mission to support children’s success. They prioritize the overall development of youth, including their physical, mental, and social-emotional well-being, from early childhood to their educational and professional journeys.

Find more information about the Y’s Summer Food Program here.