Bulloch County Schools Launches Annual Summer Meals Program for Children
Bulloch County Schools is set to initiate its highly anticipated Summer Meals Program, which will provide free meals to children aged 18 and younger throughout the month of June. This program is a critical outreach effort designed to combat food insecurity during the summer months when traditional school meal services are not available. The initiative operates under federal and state nutrition funding, ensuring that every child in the community has access to nutritious meals regardless of their family’s income level, school enrollment, or county residency.
Flexible Meal Options for Families
In an effort to accommodate the varied needs of families, the Summer Meals Program this year offers flexible options. Families can choose between picking up a weekly meal box or participating in dine-in meals at the designated locations.
The weekly meal box distribution occurs on four Mondays in June—specifically the 2nd, 9th, 16th, and 23rd—from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. or until supplies last. Providing a convenient drive-thru service, families will receive one box per child. Each box contains an assortment of food supplies sufficient for seven days’ worth of breakfasts and lunches. Additionally, families will receive important information on food safety, preparation tips, and meal menus to enhance their experience.
Distribution sites include:
– Statesboro High School: 10 Coach Lee Hill Boulevard, Statesboro
– Stilson Elementary School: 15569 State Route 119, Brooklet
– Nevils Elementary School: 8438 Nevils-Groveland Road, Statesboro
– Portal Middle High School: 27245 Highway 80 West, Portal
Families are encouraged to bring their children during pickup. If they cannot do so, they should allocate time to complete a simple state-required household verification form, noting each child’s name.
Dine-In Meal Service on Weekdays
In addition to the weekly boxes, children can enjoy on-site breakfast and lunch at Sallie Zetterower Elementary School from June 3 through June 26, specifically on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Breakfast is served from 7:45 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., while lunch is available from 12 noon to 1 p.m. No pre-registration or forms are required for children to partake in these meals, making it an easy and accessible option for families. Parents, caregivers, or older children can enter the facility independently during these meal times.
Addressing Food Insecurity in Bulloch County
The importance of programs like these cannot be overstated, particularly in Bulloch County, where food insecurity rates are concerning. Data reveals that over 87% of students enrolled in the district qualify for free and reduced-price meals. Furthermore, twelve out of the district’s fifteen schools participate in the USDA’s Community Eligibility Provision program, which assists the highest poverty schools by serving free meals to all enrolled students without the need for individual applications.
The situation is pressing; in the 2024-2025 school year, Bulloch County Schools served meals to 380 children identified as homeless. Additionally, 69% of students were classified as economically disadvantaged. As schools are vital centers of support for many families, initiatives such as the Summer Meals Program play an essential role in addressing the urgent need for accessible, nutritious meals throughout the summer months.
By prioritizing the health and well-being of its children, Bulloch County Schools reaffirms its commitment to fostering a community where every child has the opportunity to thrive, irrespective of economic challenges.
