Summer Shouldn't Mean Hunger

June 18 | Isabelle Panza

For many children on Long Island, summer break means camp, vacations, and carefree days. But for nearly 71,500 kids, it signals something far different: anxiety, uncertainty, and hunger. 

When school ends, so do the free or reduced-price school meals many families rely on. Without them, children face a long summer without consistent nutrition—and their parents, many working full-time jobs, are left to stretch already thin budgets. 

The federal guidelines for SNAP benefits often exclude struggling Long Island families.
To qualify in 2025, a family of four must earn under $3,900/month gross income or $2,600 net income. But two parents working full-time minimum wage jobs bring in about $5,720/month—too much to qualify, yet still not enough to cover rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation on Long Island. 

That’s where Long Island Cares comes in.
We help close the gap with a series of free summer food programs for kids on Long Island, designed to make sure no child spends the summer worrying about their next meal. 

Where to Find Free Summer Meals for Kids on Long Island 

1. First-Stop Food Pantries – Nassau and Suffolk County  

We operate six food pantries across Long Island, open to anyone in need—no income limits or paperwork required. Families can shop for groceries in a respectful, market-style setting stocked with fresh produce, shelf-stable meals, and kid-friendly items to help keep children fed all summer long. 

2. Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)

In partnership with the USDA and NYS Department of Education, we sponsor SFSP sites throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. These locations provide free summer lunches and snacks to children 18 and under. 

You can find these meals at libraries, community centers, and camps, making them easy to access even for families without transportation. 

3. The Children’s Breakfast Food Truck

The Children’s Breakfast Food Truck travels to high-need neighborhoods on Long Island to provide free, nutritious morning meals. It’s an essential option for families who may not live near a pantry or meal site. 

Each meal is balanced, child-friendly, and ready to eat—no prep required. It’s one of the most direct and effective ways we’re reaching children who might otherwise fall through the cracks. 

Support Beyond Food 

By providing free meals for children on Long Island during summer, we help parents redirect limited funds toward rent, utilities, or healthcare. It’s not just about food—it’s about stability, dignity, and peace of mind. 

Want to help?

You can support our summer hunger relief programs by donating, volunteering, or sharing this post with someone in need. Together, we can make sure every child has a full plate this summer.