District 87 and Unit 5 are offering free breakfast and lunch to anyone 18 years old and younger for the summer.
Children do not need to attend a school in either district in order to receive the free meals, and adults can eat for a small fee between $2 and $3.50, depending on the meal and location.
“I'm proud that District 87 provides this program and that we provide it at so many sites,” District 87 director of nutrition Caroline Bubulka said. “We're able to reach more children so that more children don't go hungry over the summer.”
During this past school year, Bubulka said just over 65% of District 87 students were utilizing the free and reduced lunch program.
“So there is a great need for the students in District 87 to get meals over the summer. Some of our students might not get regular meals at home,” Bubulka said.
Additionally, about 40% of Unit 5 students are on free and reduced lunch during the school year.
Meals
Unit 5 food and nutrition services director JoAnna Rewerts said the Summer Food Service Program is a way to continue to provide healthy meals to children through the summer months.
“I love that there's continuity between the school year and then through summer,” Rewerts said. “And that we are able to offer this program to, not just Unit 5 students, but all students and children throughout the McLean County area.”
The meals are based on USDA requirements, which call for two ounces of meat or a meat alternative, one ounce of grain or whole grain foods, three-quarters cup of fruit and vegetables and an eight ounce serving of milk.
Rewerts said people do not have to take everything that is offered, but they do have to put at least three items on their plate.
There will always be two meal options, hot and cold, and alternatives offered for those with allergies if the meal site is notified ahead of time.
Bubulka said they usually stick to kids’ favorite meals such as pizza and chicken nuggets.
One of the summer meal site regulars is incoming fourth grader Georgina who attends Trinity Lutheran School in Bloomington.
Georgina said she gets the free lunches almost everyday during the summer.
“I think it's really nice, and I like that if you don't like the food, you're able to get something like the peanut butter jelly sandwich,” Georgina said.
Sheridan Elementary School was serving tacos on Wednesday and Georgina said that meal is her favorite.
Food for anyone
The meals are not limited to those who are on free and reduced lunch during the school year.
“I just think it's a nice option, even for those families that maybe don't have the food insecurities,” Rewerts said.
Rewerts added that Chiddix Junior High School in Normal opened as a summer meal site so families at Anderson Aquatic Center can stop by for a free lunch.
“Don't be afraid to come and visit us. We're happy to provide the food," Bubulka said.
There is no signup or identification required at the meal sites. The only requirement is that meals have to be eaten on-site.
Meal locations, times and menus can be found on the Unit 5 and District 87 websites.
