By Andi Anderson
Indiana students can receive free meals and snacks at more than 1,000 locations across the state this summer through the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). This initiative, supported by the USDA, has helped provide nutritious meals to children for nearly 50 years.
According to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE), meal availability, times, and locations may vary. Food distribution takes place at community locations such as parks, schools, churches, and community centres. In some rural areas, families may even be able to pick up meals to take home.
To help families locate nearby meal sites, IDOE offers an interactive map at IDOEnutrition.com. Additionally, residents can text “Summer Meals” or “Verano” to 914-342-7744 to receive a list of local sites.
While SFSP continues to operate, Indiana has opted out of the SUN Bucks program in 2025. SUN Bucks was a separate federal initiative that provided a $120 monthly benefit to families who qualified for free or reduced-price school meals. Though Indiana participated in 2024, it chose not to join in 2025.
SFSP meals are distributed through partnerships with local community sponsors and are federally funded by the USDA to ensure children have access to healthy meals even when school is out.
Families looking to stay informed or ask questions about statewide programs can also join the Indiana Two-Way by texting “Indiana” to 765-275-1120.
Thanks to the SFSP, Indiana continues to provide vital nutrition access to students across the state during the summer months.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Indiana, Rural Lifestyle