When school is out for summer and free school meals are not an option, some children may struggle with food insecurity. That's why the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) is here to help make sure Tennessee kids and teens get healthy food all summer long, at no cost.
What Are Sun Meals and Sun Meals To-Go?
In Tennessee, the Department of Human Services (TDHS) offers free meals available through the SFSP. These meals include SUN Meals and SUN Meals To-Go and are sometimes referred to as “summer meals.”
Children can receive SUN Meals at local neighborhood locations like schools, churches, or community centers. If you live in a rural area, SUN Meals To-Go may be an option. These meals can be picked up or, in some areas, delivered to your home. The program name might be different where you live, but summer meals available through the SFSP are still free and healthy.
Who Can Receive SUN Meals and SUN Meals To-Go?
All kids and teens 18 years old and younger can receive free SUN Meals and SUN Meals To-go. No sign-up or paperwork is needed for summer meals available at most meal sites, however, some summer camps may offer SUN Meals on a case-by-case basis for families who share income information. Young adults with disabilities enrolled in school programs can also receive SUN Meals.
How Do I Find a Meal Site?
It's easy to find a summer meal site in your area when you visit the Find a Summer Food Service Program Meal Site page or learn more on the Summer Food Service Program page on the TDHS website.
Why Summer Meals Matter
In Tennessee, one out of four children doesn’t always have enough to eat. Free summer meals help children stay healthy, grow strong, and be ready to learn when school starts again.
Want To Help Your Community?
If you know a place that could serve meals or want to volunteer, learn how you can help via the TDHS website, e-mail TNSFSP.DHS@tn.gov, or call (615) 313-4749 to connect with Tennessee’s SFSP team. Applications to serve summer meals are due by May 1st each year.
Learn More About Sun Meals To-Go:
https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sunmeals2go
Find a Meal Site Near You: