Summer meal programs ensure Michigan kids have access to nutritious food

Dr. Michael F. Rice Michigan superintendent of public instruction | Michigan Department of Education

Michigan children have access to healthy meals throughout the summer, thanks to programs administered by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). The MDE oversees two key U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) no-cost nutrition programs: the Summer Food Service Program, known locally as Meet Up and Eat Up, and SUN Meals To-Go.

State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice emphasized the importance of these programs, stating, “To grow, learn, and be healthy, Michigan children need nutritious food—not just from school meals during the school year, but also during their summer vacations.”

In 2024 alone, nearly 7 million meals were served at over 1,400 sites across Michigan through these initiatives. The Summer Food Service Program offers free on-site meal services in local communities. Where such sites are unavailable, families can access Meals To-Go for several days' worth of provisions.

Families seeking a meal site can visit the Meet Up and Eat Up locator map online for details on service times and locations. This resource is updated regularly throughout the summer months.

The third program is the SUN Bucks Summer Electronics Benefits Transfer (EBT), managed by MDHHS. Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS Director, highlighted its significance: “Summer break is a time when many children lose access to reliable meals they receive at school... The Summer EBT Program... helps us close the summer hunger gap.”

However, there are concerns about future funding due to proposed federal cuts affecting universally free school meals during the academic year.

Dr. Diane Golzynski from MDE noted the impact of these programs: “Michigan children win with the availability of free meals both during the school year and over their summer break.” She stressed that continued support from Congress and state legislators is vital for maintaining these services.

For more information on accessing these programs or locating nearby service sites, individuals can visit www.michigan.gov/sfsp or www.michigan.gov/MeetUpEatUp.

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