Central Texas Food Bank Puts the Fun Back in Summer, Doubling Meal Outreach to Children

More than 60 Distribution Sites Across Bastrop, Coryell, Hays, Falls, Fayette, Lampasas, McLennan, Travis and Williamson Counties Through August 8 

AUSTIN, TX – Summer should be a time for children to play, grow, and thrive — but for some families, it’s a season of difficult choices. When the school year ends, so do free and reduced meal opportunities. Families face increased grocery costs, higher utility bills, and additional childcare expenses. However, the Central Texas Food Bank (CTFB) provides a safety net to ensure they continue to have free access to nutritious foods.  

Even before schools closed for the summer, CTFB began doubling its meal outreach and will continue to provide a mix of free daily meals at congregate food sites and boxed food for pick up in rural settings. CTFB will provide summer meals at more than 60 sites throughout its 21-county service area until August 8. CTFB’s distributions include rural communities where food insecurity rates are highest, removing barriers such as travel and access to fresh produce.  
 
“One in four children in Central Texas is at risk of going to bed hungry. Without school meals, food insecurity rises, leaving families struggling to make ends meet,” said Sari Vatske, CTFB President + CEO. “Through additional distributions and community partnerships, we’re ensuring that nutritious meals put the fun back in summer. Every meal served is a bit of relief for a parent, and a chance for a child to thrive and enjoy this time of their lives.” 

By giving, volunteering, or spreading the word, all Central Texans can help this effort. Together, we can make summer brighter for every child and family in Central Texas. More information on where to find free food is available at centraltexasfoodbank.org/free-summer-meals-kids-teens