Indiana has opted out of a federal summer food benefits program this year, but local efforts in Beech Grove are aiming to fill the gap and ensure kids still have access to free meals during summer break.
Free summer meals for kids in Beech Grove
The Kids Summer Fun Lunch program, run by the Hornet Park Community Center in partnership with Chartwells, will return this June and July at Don Challis Park. Free summer meals will be available to kids in Beech Grove from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by themed activities each weekday from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
The program’s June schedule includes hands-on activities like foam parties, cupcake walks, tie-dye, and science experiments.
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The local initiative continues even as Indiana declined to participate in SUN Bucks, a federally funded grocery benefit program that was expected to help low-income families buy food over the summer. The state’s decision drew criticism from some community members, as it reportedly helped feed an estimated 600,000 children across Indiana last year.
A post in the Beech Grove Community Facebook group warned families that “you may not find those resources” this year due to the state opting out.
However, the Hornet Park Community Center quickly reassured residents that their program would continue.
“As previously announced, our Summer Fun Lunch program will continue this year,” the Hornet Park Community Center wrote.
The Hornet Park Community Center also clarified that free summer meals will still be available in many other parts of the state as well, citing Courtney Bearsch, a spokeswoman for the Indiana Department of Education.
“While SUN Bucks will be discontinued for 2025, students in low-income areas of the state can still receive free summer meals at approximately 1,000 locations (schools and other organizations) through the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program,” Bearsch said.
Beech Grove’s program is open to all children regardless of income or residency and does not require registration. Program leaders say the program aims to provide not just meals, but a safe, fun, and engaging place for kids to spend their summer days.
For updates on the July schedule and more information, residents are encouraged to visit the Hornet Park Community Center website.
