HAGERSTOWN – Washington County Public Schools Food and Nutrition Services has launched its annual summer Meal Machine program, providing free lunches to anyone 18 and under at multiple locations across the county. The program, which will run through Aug. 15, aims to ensure that children and teens have access to nutritious meals throughout the summer break.
The Meal Machine operates at both school and community sites, with lunch served Monday through Friday at most locations and Monday through Thursday at Bester Elementary. The service is open to all children and teens, regardless of income or school enrollment status.
Meal Sites and Schedule
The program features a variety of locations, including Bester Elementary, Shafer Park and several community centers and parks such as Noland Village Community Building, Otterbein United Methodist Church and Veterans Park. Meal times vary by site, with most locations serving lunch between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
A full list of sites and serving times is available on the WCPS Food and Nutrition Services website and in local community postings. Sites marked with an asterisk offer an inside eating option, but all meals must be consumed on-site in accordance with federal program guidelines.
Program Details
Each participant is eligible for one free meal per day. School officials remind families that meals must be eaten at the site and asks that all trash be disposed of properly to keep community spaces clean.
The Meal Machine program is part of the school district’s ongoing commitment to student health and wellness, ensuring that no child goes hungry during the summer months when school meals are unavailable.
For more information or questions about the program, families can contact WCPS Food and Nutrition Services at 301-766-2890.
