More sites will be added. Check below or call 2-1-1 to find a site in your community!
Kids & Teens
Eat FREE All Summer Long
This summer, ALL kids and teens can enjoy free, healthy meals at convenient locations across the Capital Region (list below) and New York State!
The Summer Meals Collaborative, powered by United Way GCR, provides free meals and engaging activities throughout the summer at accessible locations like schools, parks, libraries, community centers, and faith-based organizations. Each meal features healthy options—including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein—to ensure kids and teens receive the nutrition they need while school is out.
What to Expect:
- FREE meals for all kids and teens ages 18 and under
- Nutritious, balanced food options
- Fun activities offered at many sites to keep kids active and engaged
- Block parties and other events
- Pop-up farmers markets and Farm-to-Table
Check the activities tab at the top of the page to plan your next Summer Meals day out!
Find a Meal Site Near You:
FIND
sites in your county using the list below
VISIT
summermealsny.org to search for all New York State locations
CALL
2-1-1 (available 24/7)
TEXT
your ZIP CODE to 898-211 for local information
(available M-F, 7 am-4 pm. Message and data rates may apply)
2025 Albany County Summer Meals Sites & Activities
Summer meals and activities are OPEN TO THE PUBLIC unless specified with enrollment details.
This Summer, join Albany Center Gallery for FREE family-friendly art activities for all ages.
Boys and Girls Club Albany Clubhouse
21 Delaware Avenue, Albany
Monday - Friday
Starts: July 7 | Last Day: August 29
BREAKFAST: 8:30 - 9:15 AM
LUNCH: 12:00 - 12:45 PM
Frank Waterson Park
63 Austain Avenue, Albany
Monday - Friday
Starts: July 7 | Last Day: August 29
Please call 518-274-3781 for more information and to register your child(ren)
Union Mission Baptist Church
7 Morton Ave, Albany
Monday - Friday
Starts: July 7 | Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 12:00 - 2:00 PM
Vi Community Center
844 Madison Avenue, Albany
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 28
BREAKFAST: 8:15 - 8:45 AM
LUNCH: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Please call 518-274-3781 for more information and to register your child(ren)
2025 Montgomery County Summer Meals Sites & Activities
Summer meals and activities are OPEN TO THE PUBLIC unless specified with enrollment details.
Veteran's Park
135 Locust Avenue, Amsterdam
Monday - Friday
Starts: July 7 | Last Day: August 18
LUNCH: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
William Barkley School
66 Destafano Avenue, Amsterdam
Monday - Friday
Starts: July 7 | Last Day: August 18
LUNCH: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
2025 Rensselaer County Summer Meals Sites
Learn more about the Rensselaer County Department for Youth Summer Food Program.
Summer meals and activities are OPEN TO THE PUBLIC unless specified with enrollment details.
Arnold Fallon Apartments
847 River Street, Troy
Monday - Friday
Starts: July 7 | Last Day: August 15
Please call 518-274-3781 for more information and to register your child(ren)
Boys & Girls Club - Rensselaer Clubhouse
544 Broadway, Rensselaer
Monday - Friday
Starts: June 30 | Last Day: August 22
BREAKFAST: 8:30 - 9:15 AM
LUNCH: 12:00 - 12:45 PM
Boys & Girls Club - Troy Clubhouse
1700 7th Ave, Troy
Monday - Friday
Starts: July 7 | Last Day: August 29
BREAKFAST: 8:30 - 9:15 AM
LUNCH: 12:00 - 12:45 PM
Knickerbacker Park
191 103rd St., Troy
More details to come. Join us here for our Summer Meals kickoff on July 7 at 10 AM!
South Troy Pool
1 S. Troy Pool Lane, Troy
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 23
LUNCH: 12:30 - 1:30 PM
SNACK: 3:00 - 3:45 PM
2025 Saratoga County Summer Meals Sites & Activities
Summer meals and activities are OPEN TO THE PUBLIC unless specified with enrollment details.
This Summer, Join C.R.E.A.T.E. Community Studios for FREE family-friendly art activities for all ages. CREATE Together is hosted in collaboration with the Saratoga Summer Meals Sites.
Cheryl's Lodge
Please call 518 371-1185 for more information and to register your child(ren).
24 Fern Lane, Clifton Park
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
BREAKFAST: 8 AM - 9 AM
LUNCH: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Clement Park
76 Grace St, Waterford
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 22
LUNCH: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Corinth Elementary School
356 Center St, Corinth
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
D&R Village
Please call 518 371-1185 for more information and to register your child(ren).
430 Route 146, Clifton Park
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 10:30 - 11:00 AM
Fort Hardy Park
14 Ferry Street, Schuylerville
Monday - Friday
Start: July 8 Last Day: August 20
LUNCH: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Join C.R.E.A.T.E. Studios on Tuesdays from 12-1 PM for an activity
Galaway Central School District - Grab 'n Go Site.
Please call 518 371-1185 for more information and to register your child(ren).
5317 Sacandaga Rd, Galway
Monday - Friday
Start: July 7 | Last Day: August 14
LUNCH: 11:00 - 11:30 AM
Greenfield Community Center - Grab 'n Go Site.
Please call 518 371-1185 for more information and to register your child(ren).
25 Wilton Road, Greenfield Center
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 15
LUNCH: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Kayadeross Acres
Please call 518 371-1185 for more information and to register your child(ren).
885 Middleline Road, Ballston Spa
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 10:30 - 11:00 AM
Louden Oaks
Please call 518 371-1185 for more information and to register your child(ren).
314 Louden Road, Saratoga Springs
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 12:45 - 1:15 PM
Join C.R.E.A.T.E. Studios on Wednesdays from 12:30-1:30 PM for an activity
Malta Gardens
2378 Route 9, Mechanicville
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 12:30 - 1:00 PM
Join C.R.E.A.T.E. Studios on Fridays from 12:30-1:30 PM for an activity
Mechanicville Elementary School (MACSC Camp)
Please call 518 371-1185 for more information and to register your child(ren).
25 Kniskern Avenue, Mechanicville
Monday - Friday
Start: July 2 | Last Day: August 22
BREAKFAST: 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
LUNCH: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Mechanicville Summer Academy High School
Please call 518 371-1185 for more information and to register your child(ren).
25 Kniskern Avenue, Mechanicville
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 22
BREAKFAST: 8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Mechanicville Public Library
190 N. Main Street, Mechanicville
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 22
LUNCH: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Park Avenue Playground
711 Park Avenue, Mechanicville
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 22
LUNCH:11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Pyramid Pines
342 Cordova Way, Saratoga Springs
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 1:30 - 2:00 PM
Saratoga Hills Park
1 Maple Lane, Stillwater
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Join C.R.E.A.T.E. Studios on Thursdays 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM for an activity
Saratoga Village - Grab 'n Go Site.
Please call 518 371-1185 for more information and to register your child(ren).
900 Rock City Road, Ballston Spa
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 1:30 - 2:00 PM
Schuylerville Public Library
52 Ferry Street, Schuylerville
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 22
LUNCH: 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Summer Adventure Camp (MACSC)
Please call 518 371-1185 for more information and to register your child(ren).
6 S. Main Street, Mechanicville
Monday - Friday
Star: July 7 | Last Day: August 15
LUNCH: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
2025 Schenectady County Summer Meals Sites & Activities
Summer meals and activities are OPEN TO THE PUBLIC unless specified with enrollment details.
This Summer, Join C.R.E.A.T.E. Community Studios for FREE family-friendly art activities for all ages. CREATE Together is hosted in collaboration with the Saratoga Summer Meals Sites.
Central Park Pavilion
500 Iroquois Way & Ashmore Avenue
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Summer Block Party: July 15 | 4 - 6 PM
Join C.R.E.A.T.E. Studios on Thursdays from 12 to 4 PM for an activity
Girls Inc.
962 Albany Street
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 11:45 AM - 12:45 PM
Hillhurst Park
2301 Campbell Avenue
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 12:30 - 1:30 PM
Summer Block Party: August 12 | 4 - 6 PM
Join C.R.E.A.T.E. Studios on Wednesdays from 12 to 2 PM for an activity
Jerry Buell Park
753 Hamilton Street
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 12:15 - 1:15 PM
Summer Block Party: August 28 | 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Join C.R.E.A.T.E. Studios on Fridays from 12 to 2 PM for an activity
Mount Pleasant Library
1036 Crane St, Schenectady
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 12:30 - 1:30 PM
Northside Village
Corner of Wood Ave & Van Vranken Ave, Schenectady
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 11:45 AM - 12:45 PM
Schenectady Public Library
99 Clinton Street
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 12:00 - 2:00 PM
Southgate Apartments
105 Frank Street
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 12:15 - 1:15 PM
Join C.R.E.A.T.E. Studios on Mondays from 12 - 2 PM for an activity
Steinmetz Park
2114 Lenox Road
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Join C.R.E.A.T.E. Studios on Tuesdays from 11 AM - 1 PM for an activity
Summer Block Party: July 29 | 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Tribute Park
868 Eastern Ave, Schenectady
Monday - Friday
Last Day: August 29
LUNCH: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Summer Meal Sites Have Activities!
Free meals, fun-filled days, and a burst of creativity—right in your neighborhood!
Summer isn’t just about meals—it's about memories. At our Summer Meal Sites, kids don’t just eat—they engage, play, create, and grow! Nearly every site offers exciting, hands-on activities to keep children energized and inspired all summer long.
Get Moving, Get Creative!
From sports and games that get hearts pumping to arts and crafts that spark imagination, our summer programming is designed to help kids stay active, social, and curious. Whether it’s painting, playing, building, or dancing—there’s something for everyone.
2025 Summer Theme: Color Your World!
This summer, let’s make the world brighter—one color at a time!
Our 2025 theme, Color Your World, invites children across the GreaterCapital Region to express themselves through vibrant weekly art activities.
Each week features a color of the rainbow, and participating sites will align all activities and artwork to match that week’s hue. It’s a joyful journey through color—fueled by creativity, guided by imagination.
Weekly Art Challenge
In partnership with CREATE Community Studios and Albany Center Gallery, we’re thrilled to sponsor this year’s Color Your World Art Challenge. Kids can submit their artwork each week to contribute to a collaborative masterpiece—the 518 Digital Rainbow!
Send a picture of your art HERE below and be part of a regional digital collage.
By the end of the summer, all submissions will form a giant rainbow made entirely of kids’ creations—a bold, beautiful celebration of our community.
Summer Meals Block Parties in Schenectady
Print flyer
Looking for family fun this summer? Come out and celebrate with us at our biweekly Summer Meals Block Parties, hosted at various sites across Schenectady!
Each event is packed with something for everyone:
Farm to Family Wheels Food Truck
Fresh, local produce and delicious offerings
Youth Pan African Orchestra
Inspiring live performances full of culture and rhythm
Activities and fun for all ages
From music, crafts and food to community connection
These block parties are more than just a meal—they’re a celebration of community, culture, and family. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, you’re invited to enjoy a summer afternoon full of joy, nourishment, and togetherness.
Don't miss out—join the fun every other week!
C.R.E.A.T.E. Community Studios
Print flyer
Join with friends for FREE interactive art projects and CREATE Together every day of the week this summer!
Mondays | Noon - 2 PM
Southgate Apartments, 105 Frank St, Schenectady
Tuesdays | 11 AM - 1 PM
Steinmetz Park, 2114 Lenox Rd, Schenectady
Wednesdays | Noon - 2 PM
Hillhurst Park, Campbell Ave, Schenectady
Thursdays | Noon - 4 PM
Central Park, Central Parkway, Schenectady
Fridays | Noon - 2 PM
Jerry Burrell Park, R346+J3V, Schenectady
Farm-to-Family Wheels:
Fresh Nutrition On the Move!
Print flyer
This summer, the Schenectady City School District is bringing fresh, healthy food directly to the community with Farm-to-Family Wheels—a mobile market offering fresh produce and other nutritious items.
Available Tuesdays and Fridays
July 1 – August 29
(no services on July 4, sites will be serviced on July 3 instead)
Traveling to multiple sites across Schenectady
Whether you're planning meals for the week or just looking for something fresh and local, you can catch Farm-to-Family Wheels at a site near you. It’s a convenient, family-friendly way to nourish your household while staying connected with the community.
Pop Up & Shop Pantry:
Fresh Food Fridays at Schenectady High School
Print flyer
Powered by the Schenectady High School Parent Empowerment Center, the Pop Up & Shop Pantry brings fresh groceries and pantry staples directly to families.
Fridays 3:00 – 5:00 PM
July 11, 18, 25 | August 1, 8, 22, 29
In front of the Pat Riley Sports Center, Schenectady High School
Just look for the pop-up tent! This welcoming, walk-up pantry is designed to support the community with easy access to healthy food. Stop by and stock up—everyone is welcome.
Feed Your Body. Fuel Your Imagination.
Join us at a local Summer Meal Site and discover how food, fun, and creativity come together to make summer unforgettable.
Summer Events
Mon. July 7 | 10 AM
Rensselaer County Site Kick-Off
Knickerbacker Park, 191 103 St., Troy
Mon. July 7 | 12 PM
Albany County Site Kick-Off
Lincoln Park, Morton Ave & Eagle St, Albany
Fri. July 11 | 3-5 PM
Schenectady Pop Up & Shop Pantry
Schenectady High School, 1445 The Plaza, Schenectady
Tues. July 15 | 4-6 PM
Schenectady Block Party
Central Park, 500 Iroquois Way., Schenectady
Fri. July 18 | 3-5 PM
Schenectady Pop Up & Shop Pantry
Schenectady High School, 1445 The Plaza, Schenectady
Fri. July 25 | 3-5 PM
Schenectady Pop Up & Shop Pantry
Schenectady High School, 1445 The Plaza, Schenectady
Tues. July 29 | 11 AM-1 PM
Schenectady Block Party
Steinmetz Park, 2114 Lennox Rd., Schenectady
Fri. August 1 | 3-5 PM
Schenectady Pop Up & Shop Pantry
Schenectady High School, 1445 The Plaza, Schenectady
Fri. August 8 | 3-5 PM
Schenectady Pop Up & Shop Pantry
Schenectady High School, 1445 The Plaza, Schenectady
Tues. August 12 | 4-6 PM
Schenectady Block Party
Hillhurst Park, 2301 Campbell Ave., Schenectady
Fri. August 22 | 3-5 PM
Schenectady Pop Up & Shop Pantry
Schenectady High School, 1445 The Plaza, Schenectady
Tues. August 25 | 12-2 PM
Schenectady Block Party
Jerry Burrell Park, 753 Hamilton St., Schenectady
Fri. August 29 | 3-5 PM
Schenectady Pop Up & Shop Pantry
Schenectady High School, 1445 The Plaza, Schenectady
New York State Summer EBT Program
Summer EBT is a new child nutrition program designed to help families buy groceries during the summer months when school meals are not available. This benefit provides additional support to ensure children have access to the food they need to grow, play, and thrive during summer break.
What Is Summer EBT?
Eligible families will receive a pre-loaded EBT card with $120 per eligible child to purchase groceries at any location that accepts EBT, including grocery stores, farmers markets, and other authorized retailers.
Who Is Eligible?
Children are automatically enrolled in Summer EBT if they:
Receive SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid benefits, or
Are certified for free or reduced-price meals through their school
If your child qualifies for school meal assistance and has been certified by their school, they are also eligible for Summer EBT.
How Can Summer EBT Be Used?
Summer EBT cards can be used the same way as regular EBT cards—at any store that accepts EBT. These cards are sent by mail and are pre-loaded with funds, making them easy and convenient for families to use.
Learn More
To learn more about eligibility and how to use Summer EBT, please visit: otda.ny.gov/programs/summer-ebt/
Check out this short video where Cody explains how Summer EBT works and how it can support your family this summer.
Watch: Understanding Summer EBT
COMING SOON
About the Summer Meals Collaborative
Launched in 2013, the Summer Meals Collaborative works to combat childhood hunger by providing FREE meals to all kids and teens throughout the summer. Led by United Way of the Greater Capital Region, we partner with local organizations to strengthen food access and nutrition security across the Capital Region.
Our Mission
We believe no child should go hungry, especially when school is out. The Summer Meals Collaborative unites knowledge, resources, and community power to create a healthier, more equitable future—one meal at a time.
Our Impact
1.9 million meals served since 2013.
80+ meal sites supported annually.
Serving children who may otherwise go without—especially those in ALICE households and families facing food insecurity.
Why It Matters
Less than 1 in 7 eligible children access free summer meals.
13.4% of NY households with children reported food insufficiency in fall 2022.
Food insecurity harms physical health, mental well-being, and child development.
Help us grow!
Support our mission by making a gift, spreading the word, or joining us as a partner.
Thank you to the Summer Meals Collaborative Partners
Because of your generosity, we are able to offer free meals and activities to kids and teens throughout the summer. Together, we're making the Capital Region the best place to be a kid. If you're interested in becoming a Summer Meals partner, please get in touch with our team at CommunityImpact@unitedwaygcr.org.
Thank you to the Summer Meals Collaborative Supporters
Farm-to-Family Wheels:
Fresh Nutrition On the Move!
This summer, the Schenectady City School District is bringing fresh, healthy food directly to the community with Farm-to-Family Wheels—a mobile market offering fresh produce and other nutritious items.
Available Tuesdays and Fridays
July 1 – August 29 (no services on July 4, sites will be serviced on July 3 instead)
Traveling to multiple sites across Schenectady
Whether you're planning meals for the week or just looking for something fresh and local, you can catch Farm-to-Family Wheels at a site near you. It’s a convenient, family-friendly way to nourish your household while staying connected with the community.
F2F Flyer Coming Soon
Print Flyer
Pop Up & Shop Pantry
Fresh Food Fridays at Schenectady High School
Powered by the Schenectady High School Parent Empowerment Center, the Pop Up & Shop Pantry brings fresh groceries and pantry staples directly to families.
Fridays from 3:00 – 5:00 PM
July 11, 18, 25 | August 1, 8, 22, 29
In front of the Pat Riley Sports Center, Schenectady High School
Just look for the pop-up tent! This welcoming, walk-up pantry is designed to support the community with easy access to healthy food. Stop by and stock up—everyone is welcome.
PUS Flyer coming soon
Print Flyer
211 Northeast Region
Need Help? Get Connected. Get Answers. Dial 2-1-1.
United Way’s 211 Northeast Region is a free and confidential service that connects individuals and families in need with local resources and support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether you need help with housing, food, healthcare, mental health services, or other essential needs, 211 is your direct link to vital services across the Northeast region of New York.
How to Access 2-1-1:
Dial 2-1-1 from any phone
(available 24/7/365 in 200+ languages)
Visit 211neny.org to search the online directory
Text your zip code to 898211
(available M-F 7 am-4 pm. Message and data rates may apply)
Trained call specialists are available to listen, assess your situation, and help identify options to address your needs. 211 serves as a trusted partner for navigating complex systems and getting timely support—especially during crises or times of uncertainty.
Get Involved in the Summer Meals Program
When school is out, thousands of children across the Greater Capital Region lose access to regular, reliable meals. The United Way Summer Meals Program brings together individuals, community partners, and sponsors to help ensure every child can access free, nutritious meals during the summer months.
There are many ways you can get involved:
Become a Summer Meals Ambassador
Are you passionate about summer meals and committed to helping families stay informed? Join our Summer Meals Ambassador Program to play an active role in expanding access and awareness. After the training is complete you will recieve an "Ask me about Summer Meals" shirt that you can wear around your community spreading the word about Summer Meals.
As an ambassador, you will:
Help spread the word in your community
Answer questions about meal site locations and eligibility
Promote 2-1-1 as a vital resource for families
Complete a brief training and receive a “Ask Me About Summer Meals” t-shirt
Fill out our Ambassador Interest Form to connect with United Way and get started.
Spread the Word
Word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools we have. Whether you’re active on social media, part of a local group, or just connected with neighbors, your voice can help families find the support they need.
We’ll be sharing downloadable graphics, sample posts, and outreach materials soon. Stay tuned for our social media toolkit.
Remember: Families can call 2-1-1 anytime to find local summer meal sites and get information. 2-1-1 is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Join the Summer Meals Collaborative
If you or your organization have the time, passion, and resources to take a more active role, consider joining the Summer Meals Collaborative. This network of partners works together to coordinate services, share best practices, and increase impact across the region.
Collaborate with other service providers
Support operations, outreach, or program planning
Help ensure every child has access to meals
Complete the Collaborative Interest Form to learn more and get involved.
For additional questions or to schedule a conversation, contact us at CommunityImpact@unitedwaygcr.org
Become a Sponsor
Organizations and individuals can make a powerful impact by sponsoring the Summer Meals Program. Sponsorships help us expand our reach, support more meal sites, and serve more children.
If you're interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact CommunityImpact@unitedwaygcr.org
Make a Donation
Your financial support helps us deliver real, immediate support to children and families. Every dollar helps us feed more kids in the Greater Capital Region
Donate now to help fight summer hunger.
Help make the Capital Region the best place to be a kid!
When school is out, many children lose access to the meals they depend on. For families living below the ALICE threshold, summer can mean increased food insecurity and hard choices between groceries, rent, and other essentials.
You can make a difference.
Your donation to United Way’s Summer Meals Program helps ensure that children across the Greater Capital Region have access to nutritious meals all summer long—at parks, libraries, community centers, and other trusted locations.
$25 provides meals for a child for an entire week
$50 helps stock a summer meal site with fresh food and supplies
Every dollar helps us reach more children in need
Together, we can fight summer hunger and give kids the nourishment they need to learn, grow, and thrive.
MAKE A DONATION TODAY
Because no child should go hungry—especially in summer.
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