ZEELAND, Mich. — Zeeland Public Schools Nutrition Services is continuing its commitment to families this summer through the “Meet Up and Eat Up” summer meal program, providing free meals for children ages 18 and younger.
Every Monday from June 8 through August 24, families can pick up a free 7-day meal box at Quincy Elementary School, located at 10155 Quincy Street in Zeeland. Pick-up takes place in the front parking lot from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Each box includes food items for seven breakfasts and seven lunches, along with a menu and preparation instructions.
This year, 192 families are currently signed up for the program, representing more than 500 children in the Zeeland area. Over the course of the summer, the program will provide thousands of meals to local children.
Superintendent Rodney Hetherton recently stopped by the Quincy Elementary pick-up site to see the program in action. Director of Nutritional Services Sarah Stone and her hardworking team shared how the weekly distribution is organized to be efficient, welcoming, and centered on families' needs.
“This program is about much more than handing out meals,” Stone said. “It is about making sure children have reliable access to nutritious food when school is not in session, and making the process as simple and supportive as possible for families. Our team takes a lot of pride in serving this community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to help meet a real need for children throughout the summer.”
Hetherton said the program is a strong example of the district’s commitment to serving students and families beyond the traditional school year.
“This is exactly the kind of work that reflects who we are as a district,” Hetherton said. “Our Nutrition Services team is not only feeding children, they are also serving families with care and tremendous organization. Sarah Stone and her entire team are doing an incredible job meeting real needs in our community.”
Children do not need to be enrolled in Zeeland Public Schools to participate. Pre-registration is encouraged to help Nutrition Services plan accordingly, but meals are available on a first-come, first-served basis in accordance with USDA and Michigan Department of Education guidelines.
Families may sign up using the Sun Meal Pick-up at Quincy Elementary registration link.
For additional information, meal site details, or questions, contact Zeeland Public Schools Nutrition Services at 616-748-3126.
