District adds delivery to summer food program

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Manatee County Schools Food and Nutrition Services is gearing up to feed even more students across the district than last year, offering free meals to all students, 18 or younger, as part of the Summer Food Service Program.

This program is part of a USDA program designed to ensure that children have access to nutrition during the summer so they can return to school healthy, happy and ready to learn. It provides kids, 18 or younger, the opportunity to enjoy a free breakfast, lunch and/or snack 5 days a week and is not based on income status.

Manatee County Schools Food and Nutrition Services is expanding their program this year by adding more site locations and a second mobile feeding bus. Meals will also be delivered to local sites including several apartment complexes, local churches, YMCAs and Boys & Girls Clubs. The summer menu includes wraps, whole grain hoagie sandwiches, fresh fruit, vegetables and low-fat milk. Manatee County Schools Food and Nutrition Service will also be providing free meals to students in summer school programs. Hot meals will be served in summer school sites and will include items like chicken tenders, nachos, cheeseburgers and pizza.

With the addition of a second bus this year, Manatee County Schools Food and Nutrition Services will be able to provide meals at more areas where kids gather during the summer. The buses will serve hot entrees along with fresh fruit and vegetables to kids in various locations around the county. Many of the favorite school menu items will be featured on the bus, including chicken sandwiches, cheeseburgers, and chicken tenders. The bus will have indoor and outdoor seating to allow kids to enjoy their meal in comfort of air conditioning or in the shade of an awning.