West Texas Families Have Access to the Free Summer Food program

As the school year winds down, the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) and Commissioner Sid Miller are gearing up to feed children all throughout the Lone Star State. Starting around June 2, schools, churches, cities, and nonprofit partners, will begin offering free summer meals to children across Texas, including Abilene and the Big Country.

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Free Meals for Texas Children 18 and Younger

The Summer Meal Programs are available to all children 18 years old or younger and students over 18 with disabilities who are enrolled in a school-based program. The goal is to prevent food insecurity when school cafeterias close for summer. However, 'some' schools may be providing meals in their cafeterias

Commissioner Miller said, “Children should enjoy summer, not worry about where their next meal is comming from.”

Read More: Why West Texas Locals Love the Key City

How to Find Free Summer Meals in Abilene and West Texas

Texas families can easily find nearby meal locations using one of two tools:

• Visit www.SummerFood.org for a searchable site map
• Call 2-1-1 to speak with an operator in English or Spanish

Families are encouraged to check back frequently for updated dates, times, and special meal options like multi-day bundles in rural West Texas areas.

Targeting Low-Income Areas in Texas

These summer meal sites focus on communities where more than 50% of children qualify for free or reduced-price meals. While meals are mainly for kids 18 and under, adults with disabilities enrolled in special education programs may also qualify.

Get Help or More Information

To learn more about Texas’ Summer Meal Programs, visit www.SummerFood.org or call TDA’s Food and Nutrition Division at (877) TEX-MEAL or (877) 839-6325.