3 Birmingham-based programs offering free summer meals for local students

During the school year, many students rely on school lunches to be able to eat every day. In the summer when these resources aren’t available, many families end up food insecure and don’t know where their next meal will come from.

Whether you’re participating or looking to volunteer or donate, check out our list of four local programs that provide free lunch for students in the Greater Birmingham Area.

Food insecurity in Alabama

According to UWCA, one out of every six children in the U.S. is food insecure. In Alabama, that statistic is one out of five. Fortunately, our city is home to many organizations dedicated to fighting food insecurity.

Community Food Bank of Central Alabama

A collaboration between Community Food Bank, the Alabama State Department of Education and the Alabama Food Bank Association, this program offers complimentary lunch and snacks to children across central Alabama every weekday throughout the summer.

• Location: 107 Walter Davis Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209
• Hours: 7:30AM-4PM Monday-Friday
• More info.

YMCA of Greater Birmingham

In the summer of 2024, the YMCA is providing complimentary meals and organizing activities at local apartment complexes lacking access to adequate food.

• Location: (YMCA Youth Center) 2400 7th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours: 9AM-6:30PM Monday-Friday
• More info.

Jefferson County Schools summer lunch sites

Breakfast and lunch will be accessible for students enrolled in Jefferson County Schools every Monday through Thursday. The 10 school sites are:

• Center Point Elementary
• Clay Elementary
• Fultondale Elementary
• Grantswood Community
• McAdory Elementary
• Pleasant Grove Elementary
• Hueytown Primary
• Pinson Elementary
• Brighton School
• U.W. Clemon Elementary

More info.

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