To help children stay well-nourished when school is out of session, the Los Angeles Unified School District is hosting a summer meal program in lower-income neighborhoods.

Students can enjoy nutritious meals at many school campuses throughout summer. (photo courtesy of the USDA)

“Children still need food when school is out,” LAUSD Superintendent Austin Beutner said. “The Summer Food Service Program will provide free, healthy meals to anyone between the ages of 1 and 18 years old without requiring them to participate in classes or recreational activities.”

“There is a real need for meal service in the summer,” LAUSD Food Services Director Manish Singh added. “More than 80 percent of our students qualify for either free or reduced-price meals.”

Beginning today, June 13, lunch will be served at select schools that offer the LA’s Best Enrichment Program. On Monday, June 17, the meal service program will begin at many schools that have Beyond the Bell Youth Services. Additional summer meal service will start on Wednesday, June 19. At most schools, meals will available through Friday, July 26, although some campuses will have a shortened calendar.

Campuses in the local area include Fairfax High School, 7850 Melrose Ave.; Hollywood High School, 1521 Highland Ave.; Los Angeles High School, 4650 W. Olympic Blvd; and John Burroughs Middle School, 600 S. McCadden Place.

The district is also partnering with the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks for a summer meal service program. Sites include the Hollywood Recreation Center, 1122 Cole Ave.; Pan Pacific Recreation Center, 7600 Beverly Blvd.; Poinsettia Recreation Center, 7341 Willoughby Ave.; and Lemon Grove Recreation Center, 4959 Lemon Grove Ave.

For information and a complete list, visit achieve.lausd.net/cafela.