Nutritional Development Services (NDS) of Catholic Charities of Philadelphia is set to hold its annual "Blessing of the Summer" at Holy Innocents Catholic Church. This event highlights the Summer Meals Program, which runs from June 16 through August 22.

The theme for this year's program is "The Art of Hope," in alignment with the Universal Church's Jubilee Year, Pilgrims of Hope. NDS aims to promote hope not only at partnering sites but also within families and communities where children and youth live. Reverend Monsignor Daniel J. Sullivan, President of NDS' Board, will preside over the blessing ceremony. Children benefiting from the program will attend.

The event is scheduled for Wednesday, July 9, 2025, with a blessing at 11:30 a.m., followed by lunch service starting at noon. It will take place at Holy Innocents Catholic Church located at 1337 East Hunting Park Avenue in Philadelphia.

This initiative provides free meals to children and youth aged 18 or younger throughout Greater Philadelphia when school is out. Meals are delivered daily ready-to-eat and require no preparation. The program offers breakfast and lunch that include whole grains, low-fat milk, protein-rich foods, fruits, and vegetables while adhering to federal nutrition guidelines.

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