Haywood County -- May 4, 2026: Haywood County Schools has opened registration for its 2026 free summer meals program, offering nutritious "To-Go" meal kits for children aged 1 through 18. This initiative aims to provide essential nutrition throughout the summer break, ensuring children have access to healthy food when school is not in session.
The program provides Free Summer Meal Kits To-Go at no cost, available through weekly curbside pickup. These kits are designed to meet USDA Dietary Guidelines, including components such as meat/meat alternate, grains, vegetables, fruit, and milk. This flexible "To-Go" option allows families to easily pick up meals to take home for their children.
All children between the ages of 1 and 18 are eligible to participate, regardless of county residence or family income. There is no application, ID, or income verification required for meal kit pickup after registration. This program aligns with broader statewide NC Summer Nutrition Programs, which serve youth 18 and under with USDA funding.
Parents interested in the program must register their children online. Registration opened recently and will close promptly on May 15, 2026. Following registration, meal kit distribution will begin on Monday, June 8, 2026. Pickups will occur weekly on Mondays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. throughout the summer months.
The designated location for curbside pickup is Tuscola High School in Haywood County, N.C. To register, families should visit the Haywood County Schools website at haywood.k12.nc.us and follow the link provided in their official announcements.
This program is vital in addressing potential hunger gaps during the summer when schools are closed, ensuring children continue to receive free, healthy meals. Haywood County Schools participates in USDA's Community Eligibility Provision year-round and extends this commitment through the summer meal kits. For additional resources, families can explore broader NC options like SUN Meals sites, SUN Bucks ($120 per child grocery benefits), or text "FOOD" to 304-304 for nearby sites. More information on other meal sites can also be found using NC's Site Finder Map or USDA's tool.
Official Announcement & Link Free Summer Meal Kits To-Go for Children