In 2010, about 16.2 million children in the United States lived in households defined as “food insecure” – a term referring to a lack of consistent access to food. Research shows that hungry children struggle in school and score lower on academic achievement tests than children who get enough to eat. During the summer months, children who normally have access to food at school may go hungry instead. Fortunately, Springfield Public Schools offer free breakfast and lunch all summer for anyone under age 18. The Summer Food Service Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and administered by the Illinois State Board of Education. The free meals start on June 4 at Butler, Sandburg and Wanless elementary schools, and they run until Aug, 10.

The program runs for shorter periods at Lee, Dubois and Feitshans elementary schools, as well as Springfield High and Lanphier High. Adults can purchase a meal through the program at a nominal fee. For more information, call the district’s Food Service Office at 525-3406 or see the program schedule at tinyurl.com/smrfood.