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School District of Manatee County Food & Nutrition celebrates 3 millionth summer meal

Manatee County Schools Food and Nutrition Services reached an incredible milestone on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, after serving three-million free summer meals to Manatee County kids since 2008. 

In 2024, more than 150,000 meals have already been served in nearly 70 locations, including schools offering summer programs, community centers, local parks and churches.

To mark the celebration, a special event was held at Samoset Elementary School, where VPK students were sitting down for a healthy lunch.

Guests included Superintendent Jason Wysong, School Board Chair Chad Choate, Board Member Richard Tatem and community partners.

The Summer Food Service Program is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Child Nutrition Programs and gives all students an opportunity to return to school in August - healthy, happy and ready to learn.
 
 
Manatee County School District General Funds are not used for this program.
 
Funding comes from meal reimbursements received from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. 
 

We recognize the hard work, dedication and support from food service managers and employees, those working behind the scenes at Wakeland Support Center, school administrators, and our community partners, including The Food Bank of Manatee County and Tropicana, for making this outreach possible.

How wonderful it is to support students in so many ways, both in and out of the classroom!