The USDA Summer Meals program for sponsoring organization FCPS begins shutting down as early as this week. The FCPS website details different end dates for local schools' USDA Summer Meals programs. For instance, FCPS’ Summer Meal Program ends on July 26 at North Springfield Elementary, as it does for Bucknell Elementary in Alexandria, Forest Edge Elementary in Reston, Clearview Elementary in Herndon,  and Fort Belvoir Elementary. On Aug. 1, the programs at Armstrong Elementary in Reston and Ben Mar Park Elementary close, among others. Others run through Aug. 16. Visit Summer Meal Service Program at https://www.fcps.edu/family-resources/student-safety-and-wellness/food-and-nutrition-programs/summer-meal-service?utm_campaign+=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery to learn when the program ends at your school.

However, as of July 24, less than four weeks remain until Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) opens on Aug. 19 for the 2024-25 school year, possibly making it challenging for some families to put food on the table for their children during the gap. Summer food assistance is available.

On July 10, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a new $100 million investment in states, Tribal Nations, and U.S. territories to assist them in implementing SUN Bucks. Each qualified school-aged child in participating states, including Virginia, receives a $120 grocery benefit from SUN Bucks. The benefit may be used to purchase food at grocery stores, farmers' markets, and other approved businesses.

SUN Bucks, or Summer EBT, is part of USDA’s Summer Nutrition Programs for Kids. It lowers families’ costs and improves food and nutrition security during summer break when children lose access to school meals. Families are encouraged to participate in all available programs. Visit SUN Programs: USDA's Summer Nutrition Programs for Kids at https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer to learn more.

Food support is available locally, too. “If you are in dire need as the summer food program is finishing, or you are worried about having enough food for you and your family, please reach out to Cornerstones Food Pantry; we are here to help,” said Minnie Orozco, Program Manager, Urgent Needs and Life Skills, when asked where else can local families can turn. Her phone number is 571-323-1400.