Free Summer Meals on Cape Cod: Fresh Food for Kids, Adults and Families
At Cape Cod Cooperative Extension, our mission is to make life better for everyone on Cape Cod. One way we do this is by helping families access fresh, nutritious food. In this post, we’ll highlight some of our key food access programs that support our community. These programs are all part of our mission to support and improve life on Cape Cod. Read on to learn more about how they can help you and your family!
SNAP and HIP (Healthy Incentive Program)
First up is the Healthy Incentive Program (HIP) and SNAP. HIP allows SNAP recipients to buy fresh food directly from farmers and farmers’ markets. It’s a great way to get delicious, local produce while stretching your food budget. If you’re using SNAP in MA, you can get money back when you shop at certain farm stands and farmers’ markets through HIP. No forms, no fuss—you’re automatically in if you’re on SNAP already. Check out this quick video on how to get FREE local produce at Cape Cod farms and markets, and be sure to visit www.DTAFinder.com for an online list of participating farms and farmers’ markets. Click here to download the Buy Fresh Buy Local Cape Cod Food and Farm Guide to find out what markets and farm stands accept HIP.
Summer Eats for Students
Next, we have Summer Eats, a program providing free meals to students during the summer break when schools are closed. This ensures that kids get healthy meals even when school is out, and the 2024 Summer Eats map is now fully updated! This totally free-of-charge summer meals program is available all across Cape Cod, all summer long. All kids and teens, 18 and under, can enjoy a perfect environment to kick back and relax while enjoying healthy meals at no cost, no questions asked. No I.D. or registration is required – just show up, eat up, and enjoy!
Head to www.projectbread.org/summereats to find your nearest location.
Cape Cod Food Resource Guide: Find Your Neighborhood Food Pantry
Lastly, we’ll talk about the Cape Cod Food Resource Guide. This guide lists food pantries, soup kitchens, elder services, and meal sites that offer food to families in need. Download the guide here or visit www.capecod.gov/foodaccess.
Recipes
Want to know how to easily prepare simple meals and snacks with fresh, healthy ingredients? Click here to visit our Recipes page for ideas and videos!
