Summer food programs for kids are at the heart of Second Harvest’s mission.
When school lets out for summer, many children lose access to free breakfasts and lunches. These are meals families rely on throughout the school year.
That’s why Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee is expanding our Kid-Focused Mobile Markets as part of Hunger free Summer.
These special Mobile Markets provide more than just fresh, healthy food. They create moments of joy and connection during a season that can feel uncertain for many families. Children who attend our summer markets can receive books, art supplies, popsicles, bubbles, and other enriching activities.
Brooke, a grandmother caring for her grandchildren, says these markets make a real difference.
“We definitely need the food since they closed the nearby grocery store. Food stamps go a lot quicker now. Especially for me, since I am taking care of the grandbabies,” she says. “We have to get our food at the gas station. It is super expensive, and they don’t have much.”
Brooke’s household includes five people. With limited options nearby, the support from Second Harvest means they don’t have to go without.
“We get milk, eggs, pudding, fruits, he loves fruits and vegetables. His favorites are strawberries and corn,” she says. “Having this food helps, very much.”
Partners such as the Little Art House and Nashville Children’s Theater help make this possible.
Our summer food programs for kids are designed to support childhood development and well-being while school is out.
At Second Harvest, our Mobile Markets operate year-round to support entire communities. But during the summer, we place a special focus on kids.
Every child deserves to thrive, regardless of the season.
Brooke says, “We definitely need the food since they closed the nearby grocery store. Food stamps go a lot quicker now. Especially for me, since I am taking care of the grandbabies. We have to get our food at the gas station. It is super expensive, and they don’t have much.”
“We get milk, eggs, pudding, fruits, he loves fruits and vegetables. His favorites are strawberries and corn.”
Brooke has five people in her household. “It’s hard. Now that the store closed. Having this food helps, very much.”