Hawaiʻi Department of Education serves nearly 145,000 free summer meals

July 2, 2026 - 11:00

The Hawaii State Department of Education has already distributed nearly 145,000 free summer meals to children across the islands, ensuring access to nutritious breakfasts and lunches while school is out for the summer. The program, which operates at various school campuses and community sites, aims to bridge the gap for families who rely on school meals during the academic year.

According to department officials, the initiative targets children aged 18 and under, offering balanced meals at no cost regardless of household income. Sites include public schools, parks, and recreation centers, with some locations providing grab-and-go options for convenience. The meals meet federal nutritional guidelines, featuring items like fresh fruit, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.

Participation has been strong, with numbers climbing steadily since the program launched in early June. The department expects to serve hundreds of thousands more meals before the summer ends in August. "This is about making sure no child goes hungry when school is not in session," a spokesperson said. The effort is funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Summer Food Service Program, which reimburses the state for each meal served. Families can find nearby sites through an online locator or by calling a dedicated hotline. The program also helps local farmers by sourcing produce from Hawaii growers when possible.