Across Central Texas, dozens of school districts are stepping up to provide essential nutrition to children during the summer months through free meal programs. These programs are designed to support children and teens aged 18 and younger, as well as disabled students up to 21 who are enrolled in school programs. Families do not need to register, provide identification, proof of residency, or income to access these meals, making it one of the most accessible support systems available to the community.

Meals are offered for free at participating school campuses and community locations. Many districts provide both breakfast and lunch, and in some cases, mobile meal delivery is also available for families who cannot travel to school sites. The only requirement, as mandated by the Texas Department of Agriculture, is that all meals must be consumed on site this ensures nutritional compliance and safety.

The programs run on varying schedules depending on the school district. Some begin as early as late May and run through mid-August. Most schools serve meals Monday through Thursday or Friday, and specific meal times generally fall between 7:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Notably, meals will not be served on district holidays such as Juneteenth (June 19) and July 4.

Participating districts include Austin ISD, Bastrop ISD, Burnet CISD, Comfort ISD, Del Valle ISD, Elgin ISD, Georgetown ISD, Pflugerville ISD, Round Rock ISD, San Marcos CISD, and many more. For example, Austin ISD is offering meals at dozens of campuses across elementary, middle, and high schools, with some locations serving into August. Similarly, Del Valle ISD is even providing meals via a mobile unit in Creedmoor.

Parents can find the nearest meal sites using multiple resources:

• Call 2-1-1 for assistance from a live operator

• Text FOOD (or COMIDA) to 304-304

• Use the Texas Department of Agriculture’s interactive meal site map online

These free meal programs are part of a broader initiative to ensure no child goes hungry while school is out. Whether a family is experiencing financial hardship or simply in need of reliable meals during the summer break, these programs are an essential community service. With over 30 school districts participating in Central Texas alone, families have ample options to find a site nearby.

Be sure to check with your local school district for the most current information, including site-specific schedules, meal times, and holiday closures. This initiative ensures that nutritious meals are just around the corner for every child this summer helping families stay healthy and supported when school is out.