Second Harvest, No Kid Hungry Expand Drive-Up Summer Meal Program

“Strong partnerships allow us to build on what’s working and adapt our approach to meet the unique needs of each community we serve,” said Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO at Second Harvest. “We’re grateful for No Kid Hungry Florida’s investment. Together, we’re creating solutions that better connect children with healthy food options where traditional summer feeding programs aren’t always accessible.”

On July 21, State Representative Rachel Plakon joined Second Harvest and community partners at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church in Sanford to distribute grab-and-go meal boxes to local families.

“Summer should be a time for children to grow, play and thrive – not worry about their next meal,” said Rep. Plakon. “By working together, nonprofit organizations and the State of Florida are helping families bridge the meal gap while school is out, and ensuring more students have the nourishment they need to return to the classroom ready to learn this fall.”

The Seminole County initiative expands on a pilot launched in rural Lake County in 2025. Supported by a grant from No Kid Hungry Florida, the program uses a non-congregate model that allows caregivers to pick up boxes of food during scheduled distributions, eliminating the requirement for children to eat on-site.

During the summer months, many children lose access to free or reduced-price breakfasts and lunches at school. In rural communities, transportation, work schedules and the distance to traditional summer food sites can make it difficult for families to participate in congregate meal programs.

“Building on the success of last year’s pilot, we’re investing in an approach that meets families where they are,” said Sky Beard, Director at No Kid Hungry Florida. “Second Harvest’s reach across Central Florida and its strong community partnerships make it possible to distribute food more efficiently and ensure children in rural communities have reliable access throughout the summer.”
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