Nutritional Development Services (NDS), part of Catholic Charities of Philadelphia, is set to launch the 2025 Summer Meals Program in collaboration with several local agencies. The City of Philadelphia’s Office of Children and Families, the American Dairy Association North East, and the City’s Parks and Recreation Department will participate in the event alongside Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker.

The kickoff event is scheduled for Wednesday, June 18, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Vare Recreation Center located at 2601 Moore Street in Philadelphia. David Stier, Assistant Director for Community Relations for NDS, will be among those offering remarks.

The event will feature a resource fair, music, and activities. Attending youth will receive a meal at noon.

The Summer Meals Program by NDS aims to provide nutritious meals to children aged 18 or younger throughout Greater Philadelphia during summer when school is not in session. This initiative ensures access to free wholesome meals funded through the USDA’s Summer Food Services Program.

Meals are delivered daily as "ready-to-eat" and require no preparation. Sites offer lunch and breakfast that include whole grains, low-fat milk, protein-rich foods, fruits, and vegetables while adhering to federal nutrition guidelines. Lunches meet one-third of children's daily nutritional needs.

In 2024, NDS served approximately 333,000 meals across 279 sites in Greater Philadelphia. This year promises over 500 free meal sites provided by sponsors such as NDS, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, the Philadelphia Housing Authority, among others.

For more information or to sign up for the program, individuals can contact the Summer Meals Hotline at 215-895-3470 option 1 or visit https://www.healthymealsforchildren.org/summer-meal-program/summer-meals-program-faq/.