Hawaiʻi State Department of Education by the end of June already served nearly 145,000 free summer meals to children throughout the state, providing access to nutritious breakfasts and lunches while school is out of session during summer.
More than 52,000 breakfasts and 93,000 lunches were served as of June 30 at 74 participating public schools via U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Seamless Summer Option. Free meals are available weekdays through July 17 to all children ages 18 years old and younger, regardless of whether they attend public school.
Three Kaua’i schools participating this year:
- Kapaʻa Elementary.
- King Kaumualiʻi Elementary.
- Kekaha Elementary.
“Every summer, we know many families continue to rely on school meals,” said Hawaiʻi Superintendent of Schools Keith Hayashi in a state release. “We’re proud to provide healthy, locally inspired meals that help students stay nourished and ready to learn while easing the burden on families.”
This year’s summer menu features several new recipes made with locally sourced ingredients:
- An ʻuala (sweet potato) swirl bun.
- Kalo yogurt bowl.
- Local-style fried rice.
- Loco moco with ʻulu (breadfruit) gravy.
Students also can choose from a daily salad or vegetarian option for lunch…